What can my cat eat? A guide to safe and unsafe foods for cats

Feed your feline right

Cats are naturally curious creatures. As well as sneaking into cardboard boxes, you've probably caught your feline friend sniffing around family meals or even pawing at leftovers in the kitchen. But it’s essential for cat owners to know what their pets can and can’t eat, as some human foods can be dangerous or toxic for them. 

Cats have unique digestive systems which can’t handle the same variety of food as we eat. As practicing veterinary surgeon Anna Foreman puts it, “Just like humans, cats need a balanced mix of macronutrient to stay healthy. They require the right ratio of proteins, fats and vitamins to avoid metabolic issues like obesity. As obligate carnivores, cats rely on animal-derived proteins such as fish and poultry. In contrast, dogs and humans can process protein from various sources, including plant-based ones.”

She adds: “Malnutrition in cats can lead to serious health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, arthritis and complications under anaesthesia. The ideal diet for a cat depends on its age, activity level and health status.”

To keep your furry friend safe, it’s always best to stick to a balanced diet designed specifically for cats. That way, you can make sure they’re getting all the nutrients they need so they can lead healthy and happy lives. To help, we've put together a list of safe and unsafe foods for cats in this guide. 

Foods you should never feed your cat

• Onions, garlic and chives are toxic to cats. Common symptoms include stomach upsets, such as diarrhoea, vomiting and loss of appetite.  In severe cases, they can cause anaemia and even kidney damage 
• Sugar-free products with xylitol, an artificial sweetener, is commonly found in items like chewing gum, toothpaste and peanut butter. If digested by cats, xylitol causes a rapid release of insulin, followed by a drop in blood sugar levels. Early symptoms include vomiting, lethargy and loss of muscle co-ordination. If left untreated, it can lead to liver failure and seizures
• Chocolate contains theobromine which can cause hyperactivity, diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain and increased thirst and urination in cats. Dark chocolate, cocoa powder, cocoa butter and cocoa beans have the highest levels of theobromine, making them the most dangerous types of chocolate for cats
• Caffeine is a no-go for cats. Found in tea, coffee, energy drinks and chocolate, caffeine can cause rapid breathing, heart palpitations, vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors and seizures
• Alcohol is toxic to cats. It can cause breathing difficulties, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration and lack of co-ordination. In serious cases, it can be fatal
• Grapes, raisins and currants are dangerous to cats. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, loss of appetite and increased thirst and urination. If left intreated, it can result in kidney damage or even death
• Raw meat, fish and eggs could contain harmful bacteria. Uncooked meat and eggs can carry Salmonella or E.coli, while raw fish may contain thiaminase, an enzyme which can destroy an essential B vitamin and lead to neurological issues in cats if consumed regularly. Eating raw foods can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and even more serious complications like nutrient deficiencies and infections
• Mouldy foods can contain harmful toxins. Ingesting mouldy foods can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, seizures in cats and, in severe cases, liver damage or even death 
• Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, might take your cat’s fancy but they should be avoided. Cats are lactose intolerant, so consuming dairy can lead to stomach upsets such as diarrhoea, gas and cramps 
• Raw dough, especially yeast dough, can cause severe bloating and gas build-up in cats. This can lead to stomach pain, vomiting and potentially life-threatening complications. Yeast also produces alcohol, which is harmful to cats
• Salt and salty snacks, such as chips and processed meats, can cause sodium ion poisoning in cats. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors and increased thirst and urination. In severe cases, it could cause seizures, coma or even death
• Fat trimmings and bones can also be harmful to cats. Fat trimmings, whether cooked or raw, can cause digestive problems such as vomiting and diarrhoea, and may even lead to pancreatitis. Bones, on the other hand, can cause choking or blockages, so they should also be avoided

Please note, this list isn’t exhaustive. If you don't see a specific food or drink listed here, always check if it's safe for your cat by searching trusted sources online. You can also ask your vet for advice.  

What if my cat has eaten an unsafe food

“If you suspect your cat has eaten something toxic, contact a vet immediately,” says Anna. “Note what was consumed, how much, and have the packaging or recipe ready if possible. Unlike dogs, cats’ body weight doesn’t provide a buffer to toxins, and there’s no safe way to induce vomiting at home. Avoid giving anything to make your cat sick as this can be dangerous and may lead to complications like aspiration.”

It’s also important to make sure you’ve removed harmful remaining food from your cat’s reach. Don’t wait for symptoms to develop, as this could make your pet sicker. Always seek help as soon as possible.

Safe foods for cats

• Cooked meat, such as plain chicken, turkey or beef without any bones or seasoning, is an excellent source of protein for cats. It provides essential amino acids that support muscle heath, tissue repair and overall growth
• Cooked eggs, whether scrambled or boiled, are a great way to supplement your cat’s diet. They’re a great source of protein and fat, promoting strong muscles and a healthy coat. Eggs also contain taurine, which is vital for heart and eye health in cats, and biotin, which support skin and coat health
• Cooked fish, such as white fish, oily fish and tuna, offer omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain a healthy coat, and support brain and joint health. You should always remove bones and only offer small amounts of cooked fish to your cat occasionally, as too much can lead to nutritional imbalances
• Plain rice, served in small amounts, can be useful for cats with digestive upset, helping to settle the stomach and providing digestible carbohydrates. It’s a good source of quick energy and can help firm up stools when a cat has diarrhoea. But as rice is high in calories and isn’t an essential part of a cat’s diet, you shouldn’t give your pet too much

These foods can be healthy supplements to a balanced cat diet, providing extra nutrients and variety. But moderation is key. As Anna explains, “Most foods can cause an issue when given in excess. Cats tend to stick to a consistent diet, so introducing large quantities of new foods could lead to issues like vomiting, diarrhoea or pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the organ that releases digestive enzymes. Some foods, especially those high in fat, carbohydrates or calories, are high in fat and carbohydrates or calories, can contribute to weight gain and obesity if fed regularly, even in small amounts.”
 

What should I do if I want to make changes to my cat’s diet?

“Always consult your vet before changing your pet’s diet, whether it’s adjusting the amount or introducing new foods,” Anna says. “They’ll consider your cat’s age, activity level and any specific health conditions that could benefit from dietary changes. Your vet can also factor in your budget and offer unbiased advice. When making changes, be sure to transition your cat’s diet gradually over a week to avoid digestive upset. You should also consider the calorie content of the new food, as your cat may need to eat more or less than before.”

Occasional treat

• Plain, cooked pumpkin makes for a tasty snack for cats, but it should only be offered in small amounts and must be free of any seasonings or added sugar. Pumpkin is high in fibre which can support digestion and help prevent constipation and diarrhoea. It’s also a good source of vitamins A and C, which supports their immune system
• Cooked carrots, which you should offer in small pieces without any seasoning, can be given to cats in moderation. Carrots are packed with fibre, which can help support healthy digestion. They’re also rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A and is essential for good vision, immune health and healthy skin and coat
• Plain, cooked peas can be given to cats in moderation. They’re a good source of vitamins like A, B1, C and K, which are important for healthy skin, eyes and bones. Peas also provide fibre, which supports healthy digestion, and plant-based proteins that complement a meat-based diet
• Plain, cooked broccoli can be offered to cats as an occasional treat, as long as it’s been boiled or steamed and cut into small pieces. It’s rich in vitamin C for immune support, vitamin B9 for cell growth and fibre for digestion. Broccoli also provides antioxidants, calcium for bones, potassium for muscle function and iron to support healthy red blood cells
• Cucumber can be given to cats as a hydrating, low-calorie treat. It also contains a small amount of fibre, which can help aid healthy digestion. Cucumber can help your cat keep cool in warmer months, while being gentle on their stomach
• Blueberries can be offered to cats as an occasional treat, but don’t give your pet too much as they are high in sugar. They’re rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress and support a healthy immune system. They also contain fibre, which can help aid digestion

What are the guidelines on giving treats to cats?

Whether it’s shop-bought treats or safe human foods, treats should still be given to cats in moderation. Anna tells us, “Treats can be a valuable part of bonding with your cat and aids in training. But watch how much you give them. To avoid weight gain, factor treats into your cat’s daily calorie allowance. Set aside 10% of their daily calories for treats and spread them throughout the day. Remember, cats are smaller than dogs so even little treats can significantly impact their calorie intake.”

Why a balanced diet matters

A balanced diet is vital for cats, as the right food can provide them with the essential nutrients they need to maintain overall health and well-being. 

Without a balanced diet, cats can develop nutritional deficiencies that may lead to serious health issues, such as weakened muscles, poor coat condition, and even organ failure. Feeding your cat a complete and balanced diet ensures they receive everything they need to thrive.

Anna adds, "Nutrition is a vital part of pet ownership and plays a significant role in an animal's health at every stage of their life. Obesity is becoming increasingly common in both dogs and cats, so it’s important to weigh out food portions based on recommendations, then adjust according to activity level and whether weight loss, gain or maintenance is needed. A simple way to calculate a cat’s caloric needs is to multiply their ideal body weight by 30 and add 70 (weight in kg x 30 + 70) to determine their resting caloric requirement.”

Can a cat’s diet affect your pet insurance?

A cat’s diet could potentially affect your pet insurance. Some policies might not cover preventable conditions like obesity or diabetes caused by poor diet, so you should always check your policy to see what’s covered. 

“Many health conditions in cats are caused, worsened or accelerated by poor nutrition, which can increase the likelihood of insurance claims and lead to further health issues,” Anna explains. “Obese cats are at higher risk for anesthesia complications and arthritis. Cats lacking proper nutrition early in life are prone to metabolic and developmental diseases. 

“A cat’s diet also plays a key role in maintaining dental, skin and intestinal health. Some conditions, like constipation, renal or urinary disease, and diabetes, can be managed or prevented through diet. 

“Feeding your cat a proper, balanced diet can significantly improve their health and reduce the likelihood of costly veterinary claim.”

Key takeaways 

• A balanced diet is crucial for keeping your cat happy and heathy. Since cats have specific dietary needs, it’s important to understand which foods are safe for them and which can be harmful or even dangerous
• Never feed your cat foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, caffeine, alcohol and any products containing xylitol, which is an artificial sweetener. These are toxic to cats and can cause serious health problems. You also shouldn’t give your cat raw meat, fish or eggs, as they may contain harmful bacteria and enzymes that can lead to digestive issues or nutritional deficiencies
• Safe treats for cats include small amounts of cooked, plain meat like chicken or turkey, cooked fish, and cooked eggs. Occasional snacks like blueberries, and cooked pumpkin, peas and carrots can also be beneficial, while plain, cooked rice can help settle an upset stomach. But treats should only make up a small percentage of your cat’s intake and shouldn’t replace a healthy, balanced diet