
5 Human Foods That Are Safe for Cats
Do you share food items on your dinner plate with your cat? If yes, you might want to think again. Vets say that not all human foods are good for your cat. Things like nuts, tomatoes, and chocolates can be toxic and can’t substitute healthy cat treats. However, you can share some other foods to show your love and keep your feline friend healthy. Below, we’ve listed five human foods that are safe for cats.
1. Fish
Being obligate carnivores, cats love fish. It’s not only delicious but also comes with many health benefits. The omega-3 acids in them help maintain healthy teeth, coat, and skin. When it comes to choosing a particular type, cod and halibut are ideal as they have lower levels of mercury saturation. Salmon and tuna are tasty as well, but reserve them for special occasions. You can whip up tuna sandwiches or make other healthy cat treats using fish as an ingredient.
2. Chicken
Cats need a lot of meat for good health as it’s a healthy source of lean protein and essential fats. Therefore, it isn’t surprising that most commercial cat foods have chicken as the primary ingredient. This also means that you can feed your cat some chicken from your plate. But ensure the meat is well cooked and the skin and bones are removed so that your kitty doesn’t choke. The protein from chicken ensures your furball has a healthy heart, eyes, and reproductive organs.
3. Cheese
Cheese and dairy products are healthy cat treats. They’re excellent sources of protein and calcium, essential for the growth and healthy development of muscles and bones. And all cats love dairy. You can give them a few tablespoons of milk or yogurt or even little bits of cheese. However, lactose intolerance is a dilemma in cats, so remember to introduce it carefully. Check often to see if your kitties’ stomach gets upset or if they exhibit allergy symptoms.
4. Eggs
Cats can eat eggs almost as much as chicken. Eggs are high in protein and vitamin B. Ensure you cook the eggs so that your cat doesn’t get infected with salmonella and other food-borne diseases. Also, remove the shell nicely to ensure your kitten doesn’t choke on tiny pieces. Eggs are also an ingredient in commercial cat foods.
5. Fruits and vegetables
Most veggies are full of vitamins and fiber, beneficial for digestion and your pet’s overall health. But since cats are natural carnivores, you might have a little trouble feeding them vegetables. Squash, carrots, broccoli, beans, asparagus, and leafy greens are excellent options. Make sure they’re washed well and cooked thoroughly. Fruits are also healthy cat treats, full of antioxidants, beta-carotene, and numerous vitamins that are good for your cat’s eyes and skin.
Some cats can have allergies to fish, beef, chicken, and dairy. So you might want to check with a vet if you notice any signs. Also, don’t overdo treats. Try to limit them to once or twice a day in small quantities.