What Not to Feed your Cat

The majority of cat owners will understand how easy it is to spoil your pet. Showering them with love, affection and of course, treats! It seems harmless to serve your beloved pet a mini version of whatever you are tucking in to for dinner, or treat them to little snacks and leftovers from the fridge throughout the day. However, it is important to know what to avoid feeding your cat as certain foods that are perfectly fine for humans to enjoy are unable to be digested by smaller pets, and this can seriously affect their health. It can result in digestion problems, severe illness or even in the very worst cases, fatality. So to avoid the risk of harming your feline friend, ensure all the food types listed below are tucked away inside a cupboard or placed well out of reach of wandering paws.

Raw eggs

Apart from containing salmonella, raw eggs contain an enzyme called ‘avidin’ which causes skin and hair problems.

Xylitol

Artificial sweeteners found in toothpaste, sweets and baked goods. Consumption of xylitol can lead to liver failure and elevated liver enzymes which can be fatal. Side effects include vomiting, poor coordination and lethargic behaviour.

Chocolate and Coffee

Both products derive from the cacao seed, which contain ‘methylxanthines’. This can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, dehydration, hyperactivity, seizures and potentially death. Some chocolate is not as toxic as others, but it’s much safer to keep all chocolate out of reach from your cat.

Onions and Garlic

Both contain harmful substances to cats and dogs. Although garlic contains a lot less, even the smallest amount can cause the breakdown of red blood cells in your pet and cause anaemia.

Grapes and Raisins

The potentially toxic substances found in grapes and raisins is still undergoing research, however it is advised by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Centre to avoid giving cats any grapes or raisins altogether.

Macadamia Nuts

Contains a toxin which can affect the muscle, nervous system and digestive system. Side effects appear within 12 hours of consumption and can include paralysis, vomiting, depression and increased heart rate and body temperature.

Avocados

Avocado contains ‘persin’, which, although tastes delicious to us, can give your cat an upset stomach.

So we have shared all the food to avoid giving your cat, now it’s time to share the food that you should feed your cat! Our quality range of Simpsons Premium cat food comes in a delicious variety of flavours, and contains all the nutrition your cat needs to live a long and happy life. See the range here.