Strictly Forbidden Foods For Cats: Complete List And Practical Advice
You think you're pleasing your kitty by giving it a small piece of chocolate or a bit of milk? Be careful, some foods harmless to us can pose a real danger to our feline companions. Discover the complete list of foods strictly forbidden for cats to effectively protect your favorite furry friend!
1. Chocolate: An Often Underestimated Danger
Chocolate, even in small amounts, is toxic to cats. The culprit: theobromine, a molecule that cats cannot eliminate. With just 2 grams per kilogram of body weight, your pet is at risk of severe poisoning, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, heart problems, or seizures. Keep this in mind before letting them taste your favorite dessert!
2. Onions, garlic, shallots, and leeks: beware of anemia
These very common cooking foods contain sulfur compounds that are extremely harmful to cats. Starting from 5 to 10 grams per kilo, these substances attack red blood cells and can cause severe hemolytic anemia, which manifests as extreme fatigue, pale mucous membranes, and severe digestive disorders. Absolutely avoid these ingredients in dishes intended for your little felines.
3. Milk: A False Friend for Adult Cats
Contrary to popular belief, the majority of adult cats (more than 70%) do not properly digest the lactose in milk. This leads to frequent diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. If your cat loves milk, opt for specially formulated lactose-free products available in specialized stores.
4. Canned tuna: yes, but sparingly!
Of course, a little tuna occasionally won't hurt. But beware: a regular diet based on canned tuna can lead to significant nutritional deficiencies and even mercury poisoning. The symptoms are varied: loss of appetite, weight loss, neurological disorders... So, tuna, yes, but in moderation!
5. Fresh grapes and raisins: dangerous even in small quantities
Grapes are a poison often unknown to cat owners. They can cause severe acute kidney failure, even in small amounts (a few grapes are enough). Watch closely for any signs of poisoning such as repeated vomiting or a sudden decrease in urine output. Keep these fruits away from your four-legged friend!
6. Macadamia nuts: a neurological risk
If you enjoy snacking on these delicious nuts, be careful not to drop any on the ground. Highly toxic to cats, they cause muscle tremors, severe weakness, and hyperthermia. In general, avoid all nuts for your felines, as they are high in phosphorus and difficult to digest.
7. Avocado: a trendy food... but toxic
Avocado contains persin, a toxic substance that can cause your cat to experience vomiting, severe diarrhea, or even alarming respiratory difficulties. Even avocado flesh poses a risk: it's best never to leave it within reach of their nose!
8. Tomatoes and Eggplants: Caution with Vegetables
These common vegetables contain atropine, which can induce severe heart problems in cats. Dilated pupils, disorientation, or cardiac rhythm disturbances should alert you immediately. So be cautious, no ratatouille leftovers for Kitty!
9. Raw potatoes: beware of solanine!
Raw (or sprouted) potatoes are toxic due to the solanine they contain. Your cat may experience severe digestive issues, lethargy, and confusion. Thorough cooking can neutralize this danger, but as a precaution, never give raw potatoes to your cat.
10. Alcohol: Even a Drop is Dangerous
This may seem obvious, but let's remind ourselves: alcohol is extremely toxic to cats. Even a very small amount can lead to coma, severe respiratory or neurological issues. Always ensure that your glasses and bottles are out of reach of curious whiskered friends.
Note: React quickly in case of poisoning.
**Important:** If despite all your precautions your cat ingests one of these toxic foods, go to the veterinarian immediately. The sooner they are treated, the greater their chances of recovery without any aftereffects.
Conclusion: Monitor your cat's eating habits.
A cat is naturally curious, greedy (and sometimes a thief!). It is essential to closely monitor what it eats to prevent any poisoning. Always prefer a specially formulated and balanced diet for it. Remember, your vigilance is its best health asset!
