Foods for cats: what they can and can't eat

What does the cat eat?

Cats are strict carnivores and can't survive without animal protein. They therefore require a quality food with a high content of animal protein, moderate amounts of fat and essential amino acids such as taurine and also vitamins. Since cats need a stricter diet than, for example, dogs, it is recommended to buy a complete complete food for the cat instead of cooking your own as there is a risk that important vitamins, amino acids and even the protein content are not complete enough for the cat to feel good in the long run.

Sometimes cats can eat other things that are offered or are on the table, but the most important thing for the cat is to always get animal protein. In addition, some foods can be harmful to the cat and are important to avoid.

Proteins that cats can eat:

As mentioned above, cats are obligate carnivores and thus cannot survive without a high percentage of protein in their food. The cat should have a complete complete food and can be offered proteins or other foods below as a treat from time to time.

• Egg
• Turkey
• Lamb
• Nut
• Pork
• Chicken
• Fish

Just be careful to cook the fish or choose fish that has no bones in it as small fish bones can get stuck in the throat and cause suffocation. Eggs should also be boiled or fried as there is otherwise a risk of salmonella.

Other foods your cat can eat:

• Cheese and other dairy products can sometimes be given in small amounts, but many adult cats are lactose intolerant and can get stomach upset from milk sugar. Lactose-free alternatives are better if you want to offer something milk-based. 
• Liver pâté can be given in very small amounts as a treat, but often contains a lot of salt and spices that are not good for cats.
• Vegetables such as pumpkin, blueberries, carrot, cucumber, peas and broccoli are not toxic to cats and can be given in small amounts if the cat enjoys it. However, most cats aren't very interested in vegetables, and their digestion isn't adapted to absorb nutrients from plants to any great extent.
• Fruits such as banana, strawberries and tomatoes (ripe, red) and cherries (seedless) are not directly toxic, but should only be given in very small amounts because fruits contain a lot of sugar and some fruits and berries can be difficult to digest.
• Corn, oatmeal, rice, and pasta aren't toxic, but cats don't have a great need for carbohydrates and these foods don't provide the cat with anything important nutritionally. They can sometimes be found in small amounts in cat food, but should not be given as a main food.
• Popcorn is not poisonous in itself, but is difficult for the cat to digest and can get stuck in the throat. Avoid popcorn with salt, butter, or other seasonings.

Are there any foods that are toxic to cats?

• Chocolate, garlic, onions and grapes (and raisins) are directly toxic to cats and should never be given. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are dangerous for cats. Garlic and onions can cause severe anemia, and grapes (raisins) can cause acute kidney failure. Read more here: 
• Tomato plants: can be toxic or irritating to cats and should not be given. Ripe, red tomatoes are not poisonous, but the plant and unripe tomatoes are. 
• Spices and herbs such as cinnamon, saffron and basil should be avoided. Cinnamon and saffron can be toxic in large amounts and do not provide any nutritional benefit to the cat.

If you suspect that your cat has eaten any of the above foods or if the cat's general condition appears to be impaired, you should always consult a veterinarian for assessment.

Symptoms of poisoning in cats:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Respiratory problems
• Increased salivation
• Blunt
• Wobbly