The cat is curious and knows how to defend itself better than we think, but some common foods from our kitchen can be deadly for it. Knowing them by heart is active prevention.
Onion, garlic, shallot (Allium family)
They contain n-propyl disulfide, which destroys the cat's red blood cells causing hemolytic anemia. Toxic cooked, raw, powdered, in broths.
Toxic dose: even small repeated amounts (5 g/kg). Cumulative effect.
Symptoms: fatigue, pale gums, dark red urine.
Chocolate
Theobromine is toxic to cats just like it is for dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is.
Symptoms: vomiting, tremors, seizures, arrhythmias.
Coffee and tea
Same effects as theobromine. Caffeine is highly toxic.
Grapes, raisins, and grape juice
Cause acute kidney failure even with a few berries. No predictable safe dose.
Milk and dairy products
Most adult cats are lactose intolerant. Causes severe diarrhea. It is not "toxic" in the strict sense, but should be avoided.
Human canned tuna
Too much salt, uncontrolled mercury content, lacks added taurine. Occasionally okay, habitual vitamin E deficiency → steatitis (inflammation of fat).
Raw fish (long-term)
Contains thiaminase, an enzyme that destroys vitamin B1 (thiamine). Deficiency → neurological problems.
Cooked chicken meat and bones
Cooked bones can splinter and may perforate the intestine. Never give cooked bones.
Avocado
Contains persin, which is toxic to cats. The pit also poses a risk of intestinal obstruction.
Xylitol
The sweetener found in chewing gum, candies, toothpaste. Hyperinsulinism and hepatic collapse.
Alcohol
Five times more toxic to cats than to us. Even traces in rum-flavored desserts.
Raw potatoes and tomatoes (green parts)
Contain solanine. Cooked potatoes are okay in small doses.
Dog food
Not "toxic" but lacks taurine, vitamin A, arachidonic acid. Harmful diet in the long term.
Human "savory" food
Processed meats, aged cheeses, hot dogs: too much salt for the cat's kidneys.
What to do in case of ingestion
- Identify the food and the approximate amount
- Call the veterinarian or the Veterinary Poison Control Center immediately
- Do not induce vomiting without instructions
- Bring the packaging if possible
Things to keep in mind
A clear list hung on the fridge helps in emergencies. Knowing the banned foods is the first rule of food safety for those living with a cat.
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