Most cat owners know that human food isn’t always safe for your feline friend. What human foods can cats eat safely? I am glad you asked, as I have created a list you can use as a guide. That way when you feel like giving your cat to a special treat, you know the food is safe for him to eat!
The main component of your cat’s diet should be cat food, but on occasion, it is okay to give your cat a special treat. Just watch to make sure you aren’t giving your cat too much table scraps and they are beginning to gain weight. You may have wondered what human foods can cats eat safely. Look through this guide and choose a feline-friendly snack. Your cat will be sure to thank you by giving you extra cuddles!
What are the Human Foods Can Cats Eat?
Salmon
Salmon is a great source of protein for your cat, and it contains omega-3 and fatty acids. Be sure the salmon is cooked fully, don’t give it to your cat raw.
Chicken, Deli Meat, Turkey, Beef
Cats are meat eaters by nature. Having a little meat in their diet is great for good vision, a strong heart, and added protein to their diet. Just make sure the meat is cooked through. Raw meat can make a cat sick.
Spinach
If your cat is interested the next time you whip up a salad, let them try some spinach. It is packed full of vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to your feline. Now, if your cat has bladder stones, it is not recommended.
Whole Grains
Whole grains like oats, brown rice, barley, and couscous are great. These can be good to serve your cat if they have an upset stomach as well.
Eggs
Cooked eggs can be a great source of vitamin B and protein. Just make sure the eggs are cooked through, and let them have just a little. It is recommended to try a small bit first to see if your cat is allergic, and if they act fine, then you can give them more.
Vegetables
If your cat is interested in vegetables, let him try them! Make sure the veggies are cleaned and cooked and see if they are interested. Carrots, broccoli, green beans, chopped greens, winter squash, asparagus, are all great options.
Cheese
Some cats can tolerate a little bit of cheese without it upsetting their stomach. Other cats, on the other hand, have troubles as the dairy in it. You are welcome to try a small amount and see how they do.
Blueberries, Apples, Bananas, Cantaloupe
In moderation, all of these fruits are safe for your cat to enjoy. They are a great source of vitamins and nutrients, and some cat foods and treats have some of these fruits mixed in.
Bread
Cooked bread is a feline-friendly snack for sure. Never let your cat eat raw bread dough, make sure if you make homemade rolls or bread they don’t ingest any raw dough.
Foods Cats Shouldn’t Eat
Here are some foods to totally avoid letting your cat eat!
- Grapes and Raisins
- Chocolate
- Fat Trimmings and Bones
- Bread Dough
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Onions and Garlic and Chives
- Macadamia Nuts
- Dog Food
- Green Tomatoes
- Raw Potatoes
- Milk
- Tuna
- Xylitol or Artificial Sweetener (found in gum and candies)
Interesting to know considering that my brother’s cat, whom he rescued from under a Matson cargo container, would often break into his fridge as a kitten and ransack the deli meat and cheese. He was later given to us after my brother moved home and then back again and found out he couldn’t take the cat with him. He was notorious for getting into human food. I can still remember him licking the top layer of cheese off of our lasagna that had been cooling off on top of the stove and the little red footprints that he left behind.