We all like to think that our kittens and cats are purrrrfect pets, and they are. What better way than to reward them with yummy treats that we all like to enjoy as well? But the truth is: some foods can be harmful to your furry friend and even at times deadly. Here, we break down the foods and drinks that you should never share with your cat and bust through some common misconceptions pet owners might have about their cat’s diet.

 

1. Tuna

This addition to the list might seem counterintuitive, because cats love tuna and can even become addicted to it. But as it turns out, too much tuna can lead to mercury poisoning and isn’t nutritionally complete enough to satisfy cat’s needs. While here and there tastes probably won’t hurt them, be aware that it could make them sick.

 

2. Milk

Cats and warm milk seem to be the perfect duo, but in reality, milk can cause digestive problems for your feline friend.

 

3. Grapes and Raisins

It’s unknown why, but this fruit can cause acute kidney failure in both cats and dogs. Signs first include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

 

4. Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are flavorful additions to some of our favorite dishes, but when cats eat them, they can get very sick. Both contain a substance called thiosulphate that damages red blood cells and can cause anemia in cats leading them to be out of breath, lethargic, or even unable to efficiently process oxygen.

 

5. Alcohol

While a cocktail here or there isn’t bad for humans, it has the same effect, but multiplied on our pets. It can cause liver damage and even put them in a coma.

 

6. Chocolate

It’s well known that dogs shouldn’t be given chocolate as a treat, and while cats don’t tend to seek it out on their own, ingestion of the sugary dessert could be lethal. Chocolate contains a substance known as theobromine, which causes nausea, diarrhea, and even death for cats and kittens.

 

7. Raw Eggs

While threats like salmonella exist for cats, egg whites also contain avidin which interferes with vitamin B absorptions necessary for a silky kitten coat.

 

8. Liver

Another food that’s A-OK in small doses, liver can actually cause vitamin A poisoning if eaten in high volumes.

 

9. Caffeine

Your morning perk-up does much more for your furry friend. It causes a cat’s heart rate to accelerate and can cause rapid breathing and restlessness. Keep an eye out for caffeine in colas, chocolate, and other common household treats.

 

10. Dog Food

Remember that dogs and cats have different dietary needs specifically addressed in products like H-E-B Hill Country Fare Cat Foods.