Some cats are notoriously fickle when it comes to their meals.
They'll often turn up their noses at the kibble they've eaten for years. Other
cats, though, are ready to chow down on anything and everything — including the
pizza on your plate. But it's wrong to share food with your cat, right?
Not always.
Though you shouldn't give your purring friend free access to your
pantry and refrigerator, you probably have some human food for cats in
your kitchen. These are foods that won't hurt a kitty who has been given a
clean bill of health during routine vet exams. They're
also foods that are in their purest forms and free of additives like salt,
sugar, and chemicals that could be toxic to a feline's sensitive digestive
system.
Human Foods Safe for Cats
Which of your favorite snacks and ingredients fall into the
category of human food safe for cats? Here are our top five
recommendations.
1. Vegetables
Cats don't really need to fuel up on veggies like humans do. They
need proteins more than anything else. However, your pet may appreciate some
spinach, peas, or carrots. For best bets and to avoid choking hazards, cut up
any leafy or root veggies. Then, steam or boil the pieces so they're soft and
digestible. Never add any seasonings.
2. Fruits
What human food can cats eat besides
vegetables? Some fruits are perfectly fine. These include cut-up pieces of
strawberries and melon. You can try out blueberries as well. You don't have to
cook the fruit, either. Just be careful not to overdo the amount of fruit you
allow your cat to ingest. Fruits have natural sugars that can make your cat
feel queasy.
3. Grains
You're making yourself a morning bowl of oatmeal. Why not whip up
a tiny batch for your cat so you can have breakfast together? Your cat's
oatmeal should be just oats. Skip the brown sugar or honey.
White or brown cooked rice is another grain appropriate for hungry kitties.
Many vets recommend that you give a cat with tummy issues, like diarrhea or
loose stools, a bit of very soft rice.
4. Protein
Meats and fish belong in a cat's diet. That's why you'll see
turkey, mackerel, and lamb used in most cat foods. If you're having chicken,
salmon, or lean ground beef for dinner, you can feel free to share a bit with
your cat. Skip the oils and spices and bake up your protein-rich treat.
Remember that your cat won't be fussy about flavors the way you and your family
might.
5. Hard Cheeses and Eggs
In moderation, hard cheeses are a human food safe for cats.
Think genuine parmesan or even firm gouda. Hard cheese adds a touch of dairy
into your cat's diet. Feel free to pair your cheese with part of a cooked,
scrambled egg. Again, these are human food for cats that you
should think of as occasional snacks. Cheese and eggs are incredibly rich. Cats
usually can't handle having them too frequently or in substantial quantities.
Avoiding Problems with Feeding Cats from the Table
It's vital to mention that even if your cat will eat something, it
doesn't know what's safe and what isn't. Cats have been known to "steal" all sorts
of foods from countertops, coffee tables, and dishes. Your role is to protect
your cat from the wrong items so you avoid a trip to the emergency vet.
Consequently, be wary of giving your cat anything you're not sure
its tummy can tolerate.
Yes, it can be hard to say no to an insistent furry pal who wants a taste of
what you're enjoying. However, now that you know what human food is
good for cats, you can confidently redirect your kitty's attention in a
more beneficial, nutritious, and healthful direction.
To learn more about caring for your cat and ensuring it has the
best, healthiest diet possible, schedule
an appointment today.
