Most of us may not be aware that they are many foods toxic for cats. It has normally been stressed how dangerous chocolate is for dogs but it is equally as toxic for cats.
It is hard to monitor cats, as it is more difficult to keep them out of things. After all, they can jump to places that we can’t even reach so please do not throw caution to the winds, for you have an inquisitive cat.
It is imperative that you feed your cat a good, premium cat food so that they can live a long, happy and healthy life. Of course, a small sliver of chicken or turkey is not going to “kill the cat”, but just don’t make it a practice. In essence, kitty will be learning that it is OK to eat off your plate anytime.
There are foods that I would bet you would be surprised to be on the danger list for your cat, and very toxic for them. Onion, garlic and similar “root” vegetables have a substance in them that can destroy their red blood cells, which can cause a form of anemia.
Just as it is very toxic for dogs, Theobromine, the ingredient in chocolate, is also very dangerous to cats for the very same reasons.
A lot of the same foods that are super great and/or tasty to humans can be very dangerous for dogs and cats. It has been advisable by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center not to give grapes or raisins to dogs or cats because of a certain toxicity found in these foods. Green tomatoes, raw potatoes and their plants can also be dangerous to the gastrointestinal systems of the animals as well.
The myth about giving cats milk is just that–a myth. In reality, some cats don’t even like milk, and others are lactose intolerant. Of course, many times the cats that do like milk are the same ones that are lactose intolerant. If they tend to beg for milk, try a small amount of cream 2 – 3 times a week. There is also a special blend of milk sold specifically for the feline in pet shops and specialty stores that is called Cat Sip (a blend of skim milk with an enzyme that helps digestion of lactose). It is not a necessary part of their diet as we have heard all these years.
The bottom line is that if you feed your pet a good premium pet food with all the necessary nutrients that they need, along with the occasional treats made specifically for them, there is no need to give them any people foods and table scraps, because, after all, we do love our pets and want to do what is best for them. Sometimes it is what we don’t do is a best way to show our love.
