We love our pets. They are an important part of our lives, and research from the American Heart Association even shows that they may lower heart disease risk. Cats are especially popular pets because of their unique behavior and personalities. It is our job and responsibility to keep our pets safe from foods that can harm them.
Let’s look at 6 foods that are dangerous for your cat.
Alcohol:
This one is fairly obvious, but still deserves to be mentioned. Because of a cat’s small size, they are very sensitive to alcohol. It is important to keep alcohol out of the way of cats. Consumption could lead to vomiting, disorientation, loss of coordination and stupor. “In severe cases it can cause coma, seizures and death,” according to the Best Friends animal society.
Chocolate:
Chocolate contains two compounds that are toxic to cats, called caffeine and theobromine. These chemicals are bad for cats because they stimulate their hearts and nervous systems. According to Best Friends, “The signs of toxicity can range from vomiting, increased thirst, abdominal discomfort and restlessness to severe agitation, muscle tremors, irregular heart rhythm, high body temperature, seizures and death.”
Coffee:
Coffee, like chocolate, also contains caffeine, which can cause stimulation of the heart and nervous system. Consumption can result in vomiting, diarrhea, polyuria (or excessive urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), hyperactivity, rapid heart rate, rapid respiratory rate, hypertension, weakness, cardiac arrhythmia, tremors, seizures, and coma, Best Friends says. In the worst cases, death can result from cardiac arrhythmia or respiratory failure.
Dairy:
Although a cat drinking milk from a saucer is a familiar picture, it may not be so good for them. Cats can be lactose intolerant, and should not receive lactose after they have stopped nursing on their mother’s milk. Lactose intolerant cats can experience diarrhea, vomiting and an upset stomach. Cats who are not sensitive to lactose can tolerate small servings of milk.
Some fruits and veggies:
Not all produce is bad for your kitten. Some foods that are safe are: Carrots, squash, broccoli and green beans in small portions, according to the Animal Planet. These foods should be cooked before serving. Foods that should not be consumed by cats are the following: avocado, apricots, cherries, garlic, onions, mushrooms, grapes and raisins.
Sushi:
Raw fish can cause thiamine deficiency in cats, which can lead to stomach issues, seizures, and death.
For more information on dangerous foods to feet your pet, visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center website or call them at this number: 1-888-426-4435. The center is open 24 hours a day.
Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
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REFERENCES:
1. “6 Human Foods You Should Never Feed Your Cat.” The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 24 June 2015. Web. 29 June 2015.
2. “5 Human Foods Cats Can Eat.” Animal Planet. Animal Planet, 15 May 2012. Web. 29 June 2015.
3. “Pet Ownership and Cardiovascular Risk.” Circulation. American Heart Association, n.d. Web. 29 June 2015.
