So, what human food can cats eat? Many people may offer their cats a taste of whatever they’re eating, but do you ever wonder “what human foods can cats eat?” See what foods are risky for your cat to eat and which ones are safe.
It’s a widespread misconception that only dogs beg at the dinner table, but it’s perfectly normal for your cat to do the same. Any time you break out the tuna or ice cream, your cat is probably watching you expectantly, hoping you’ll sneak them a treat. Keep in mind, however, that just because something is safe for human consumption does not mean it is safe for them.
To help you decide what human foods are safe for your cat to eat and which ones are not, here is a handy guide.
What Can Cats Eat?
Most of the time, full and balanced cat food is all that they need to ensure your cat’s health. There’s no need to supplement your pet’s diet with anything, but you can offer them some human food as a treat every once in a while if you like. Some common human meals that are safe for cats to eat are below.
Meats
Your cat can safely consume cooked, lean meats such as beef, chicken, turkey, liver, and lamb. Make sure you cook the meat fully (never feed a cat raw meat). Moreover, ensure you remove the skin and bones before feeding them to your cat.
Whole grains
Your cat can consume a variety of human foods, including whole grains like oats, corn, brown rice, and even couscous, all of which are high in protein.
Fish
Fish is a popular choice for cat food, and most varieties are safe for your feline friend to eat. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for a cat’s general health and may also help those felines suffering from joint pain or kidney failure. Never feed your cat raw fish, and follow the same procedures for other types of meat.
Eggs
In terms of what cats can eat, it may come as a surprise to hear that eggs are acceptable. Eggs that you boil or scramble are a healthy treat for cats because they are high in protein and amino acids. Never give your cat raw eggs because, just like humans, cats can become sick from eating them.
Fruits
Fruits, like vegetables, can be hit or miss with cats; some cats love the taste and texture, while others prefer the blander flavors of veggies. If your cat has a taste for fruit, don’t worry—there are plenty of options.
Most are low in calories and fat, and many are good sources of vitamins A and C. You can provide a nice snack of bananas, blueberries, cantaloupe, watermelon (without seeds), peeled apples (without the cores), or pumpkins.
Vegetables
Remember, vegetables aren’t usually liked by cats, so it’s possible your cat might simply refuse to eat one if you offered it to it. Vegetables may seem like a weird snack for your cat. But they actually provide plenty of nutrients, fiber, and water. Cucumbers, steamed broccoli, carrots, asparagus, and peas are all healthy options for feline diets.
Related: CAN CATS EAT RICE?
Human Foods To Avoid Feeding Your Cat:
Whereas many human foods are perfectly fine for cats to eat, there are certainly many that should be avoided. The following are examples of meals and ingredients that can be dangerous to cats:
- Milk, cheese, and yogurt are all examples of dairy products.
- Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is highly poisonous.
- Coconut milk.
- Alcohol or foods containing alcohol.
- Seeds.
- Cooked bones.
- Raw, uncooked bread dough.
- Macadamia nuts, walnuts, and other kinds of nuts.
- Wine and dried fruit.
- Caffeine-containing beverages and foods.
- Garlic, onions, chives, leeks, shallots, and scallions are all members of the allium family.
- Xylitol is a sugar alcohol commonly used in confections, some nut butter, and chewing gum.
- Raw meats and fish.
FAQs: What Humans Food Can Cats Eat?
What Human Food Can Cats Eat?
Your cat can safely consume cooked, lean meats such as beef, chicken, turkey, liver, and lamb. Make sure the meat is fully cooked before feeding it to your cat, as uncooked meat can be fatal to them, and always remove the skin and bones.
What Human Food Can I Cook For My Cat?
Simply put, cats can only survive on a diet of meat. Meat is an important source of protein for humans, which is necessary for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system, sharp eyesight, and fertile reproductive organs. Lean deli meats, cooked beef, chicken, or turkey in modest portions, or even just those are all great options.
Can Cats Eat Rice?
Rice is a common ingredient in many human diets, but is it safe for cats to consume? Now that the rice is cooked, cats can safely eat it. As a grain that can help make a cat food more balanced nutritionally, rice may also be an ingredient you find in some of the brands you consider buying for your cat.
Parvaiz Yousuf is a senior SEO writer and editor with an experience of over 6 years, who also doubles up as a researcher. With an MSc zoology degree under his belt and possessing complete Search Engine Optimization (SEO) knowledge, he works as a science journalist for a US-based website and Asian Scientist (A Singapore-based magazine). He also works as Director of Wetland Research Centre, Wildlife Conservation Fund YPJK since 2018. Besides, he has several publications to his name on cancer biology and biochemistry in some reputed journals such as Nature & International Journal of Molecular Sciences, & magazines such as Science Reporter, BUCEROS BNHS, and has an abiding interest in ornithology. He also worked as a Research Associate for JK Policy Institute.
