Top Foods Cats Should Never Eat: A Quick Guide

Human Food Items to Avoid for Cats

Scallions, Onions, and Chives

This group of vegetables contains substances that can destroy a cat's red blood cells. Even trace amounts should never be given to cats. Ingestion of these foods can lead to anemia, hematuria, vomiting, fever, and in severe cases, can be fatal.

Bones

The sharp edges of bones can become lodged in a cat's throat or digestive tract, potentially causing punctures in the digestive system.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which, when ingested in excess, can cause acute poisoning. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiac issues.

Liver

Feeding cats chicken liver regularly can lead to calcium deficiency, causing difficulties in walking. Liver is rich in vitamin A, and excessive intake can lead to abnormal bone development.

Grapes

Grapes can place a burden on a cat's kidneys and may lead to kidney failure in severe cases.

Shrimp

Regular consumption of shrimp can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B1 in the body. A deficiency in vitamin B1 can result in decreased appetite, vomiting, seizures, and unsteady gait.

Dried Fish

While cats may enjoy dried fish, it is high in minerals and can lead to urinary tract stones.

Milk

Longterm milk consumption can cause cats to drink less water, posing a risk to their kidneys. Cats can develop lactose intolerance after about two months.

Tea, Coffee, and Green Tea

All three contain caffeine, which, if ingested by cats, can cause vomiting, polyuria, and even abnormalities in the heart and nervous system.

Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream and can, if consumed in excess, damage brain and body cells, leading to difficulty breathing, nervous system abnormalities, and potentially causing coma and death.

Houseplants

Lilies

Cats should never eat any part of a lily plant, especially the roots. Consumption can lead to vomiting, excessive drooling, a decrease in appetite, and within 72 hours, kidney failure.

Ivy

Eating the entire plant is dangerous, particularly the leaves and stems. It can cause irritation to the oral mucosa, leading to inflammation and pain.

Coconut Palm

All parts of the coconut palm are hazardous, especially the seeds. Consumption can result in severe vomiting, coma, or seizures, ultimately leading to liver failure.

Star of Bethlehem

Consumption of any part of this plant is dangerous, especially the roots. It can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and even bradycardia, potentially leading to sudden death.

Rhododendron

Eating any part of this plant is dangerous. It can cause persistent vomiting and may lead to symptoms like pneumonia and generalized weakness.

Christmas Poinsettia

Consumption of any part of this plant is hazardous, particularly the stems and leaves. It can cause severe mouth pain and vomiting.

In addition to the listed foods, some small toys can also be harmful. Cats have a tendency to develop a 'pica' disorder, making it difficult for them to resist eating small objects.

It is crucial for pet owners to keep all small items out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.