What Can Cats Eat? Safe and Unsafe Foods Every Cat Owner Should Know
If your cat ever gives you those eyes while you’re eating, you probably wonder what foods they’re allowed to enjoy—and which ones could harm them. While it can be tempting to share your plate with your furry friend, not all human foods are safe for cats. Knowing what’s okay and what’s dangerous will help you keep your cat healthy, happy, and thriving.
Why Cats Need Special Nutrition
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are built to rely on animal-based proteins rather than plant foods. Unlike humans, cats can’t get all the nutrients they need from fruits and vegetables alone. Essential nutrients such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A are found naturally in meat and play critical roles in heart function, eyesight, immunity, and overall health.
A diet lacking these key components can lead to serious health problems over time, including vision loss, heart issues, and weakened immune function.
Safe Foods You Can Share (in Moderation)
While your cat’s main diet should be complete cat food, there are a few human foods that can be offered as occasional, safe treats:
Cooked Lean Meat
Plain cooked chicken, turkey, and other lean meats are excellent protein sources your cat will love—just be sure they’re fully cooked and unseasoned.
Cooked Eggs
Scrambled or boiled eggs are packed with protein and nutrients that support energy and muscle health. Avoid butter, oil, salt or spices that could upset your cat’s stomach.
Small Portions of Plain Rice or Oatmeal
A little rice or oatmeal can help calm a sensitive stomach, but they should never replace meat as part of a balanced diet.
Cooked Vegetables & Some Fruits
Cats don’t need fruits or veggies, but tiny amounts of cooked carrots, peas, pumpkin, or small pieces of safe fruits like blueberries or apples (without seeds) can be fine occasionally. Always introduce new foods slowly.
Foods Your Cat Should Never Eat
Some human foods are more than just unhealthy—they’re toxic to cats and can cause serious illness or even be life-threatening.
❌ Onions, Garlic, and Chives
These common ingredients can poison cats by damaging their red blood cells, leading to anaemia and weakness—even in small amounts.
❌ Chocolate & Caffeinated Drinks
Chocolate contains theobromine, and caffeine is a stimulant—both can cause vomiting, tremors, irregular heartbeat, and seizures in cats.
❌ Grapes and Raisins
Even tiny amounts can lead to kidney failure in cats, so always keep these well out of reach.
❌ Dairy Products
Contrary to popular belief, many adult cats are lactose intolerant. Milk, cheese, and other dairy can trigger upset stomach, bloating, or diarrhoea.
❌ Raw Fish & Raw Meat
Though your cat might love it, raw fish and meat can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, and certain fish contain enzymes that deplete vital vitamins.
❌ Alcohol & Sugary Foods
Even small amounts of alcohol can damage a cat’s liver and nervous system. Sugary foods contribute to obesity and dental issues.
❌ Xylitol & Artificial Sweeteners
Found in sugar-free products like gum and candies, this sweetener can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar, liver damage, and seizures in pets.
Can You Feed Homemade Cat Food?
Yes—but with caution. Homemade meals can be healthy and delicious for your cat if they’re nutritionally balanced. Cats need more than just plain meat; they also require specific vitamins, minerals, and taurine that aren’t present in muscle meat alone. If you’re unsure whether your recipes meet your cat’s nutritional needs, consider high-quality commercial cat foods that are specially formulated to support feline health.
What to Do If Your Cat Eats Something Dangerous
If you suspect your cat has eaten something unsafe:
1. Call your veterinarian immediately—don’t wait for symptoms to appear.
2. Try to identify what and how much was eaten.
3. Avoid inducing vomiting unless directed by a professional.
Prompt action could be lifesaving.
Conclusion
Cats may beg for a bite from your plate, but not all human foods make good snacks for them. Keeping your cat’s diet focused on nutrient-rich, species-appropriate foods helps prevent health issues and keeps them energetic and happy. Knowing what’s safe and what’s not gives every pet parent peace of mind—and a healthier, longer life for their furry companion.