Top 10 Foods Cats Should Never Eat: A Comprehensive Lis
Bivalves like abalone can harbor toxins that can trigger skin inflammation.
Abalone is a delicacy highly valued by humans, but unfortunately, cats are unable to indulge in this gourmet treat. There's an old saying that if one were to eat abalone, their cat's ears would fall off. Indeed, when a cat consumes abalone, a substance called protoporphyrin, found within the abalone's liver, enters the cat's bloodstream. While this substance is meant to break down the chlorophyll from the seaweed it consumes when the abalone is alive, it is not inherently toxic. However, if the cat is then exposed to ultraviolet light for an extended period after eating the abalone, the protoporphyrin in the blood of the cat's thinner skin areas (like the ears) can undergo a change. This substance can damage red blood cell membranes, leading to skin inflammation. If the cat scratches the affected area, the skin tissue can peel off. Studies have shown that some cats may even lose their ears within two weeks.
For cats, onions and certain fish species are also dangerous. Besides abalone, there are many other foods that are not suitable for felines. Among these, onions and scallions are particularly representative. These contain substances that can dissolve the tissues of animals like cats and dogs. Additionally, fish with blue backs, such as mackerel and sardines, should be avoided. Cats that exclusively consume blueback fish may suffer from a deficiency in vitamin E, which can lead to yellow fat disease. Moreover, eating too much squid can cause digestive issues, while raw pork is a primary source of parasitic infections.
Feeding cats human food can be a matter of life and death.
When adorable cats persistently beg for human food, owners might inadvertently give in. However, human food often contains excessive amounts of salt, sugar, or fat, which are far from healthy for cats. Many foods that are perfectly fine for humans can be too much for the smaller bodies of cats. Humans and cats are different animals, so it is crucial for owners to be cautious about what they feed their pets and avoid giving them human food without considering their dietary needs.