Do you have a finicky feline, who will turn her cute little nose up at anything other than gourmet pet food? Or will your furball eat anything and everything in sight? Just like people, kitties all have their own appetites. Some are rather fussy, while others will steal your pizza the moment your back is turned. No matter which side of that fence your furry friend lands on, it’s important to make sure that she only eats things that are safe for her. In this article from Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cy-Fair pet clinic, a vet discusses safe and unsafe foods for cats.

Safe Treats

If you want to give Fluffy a treat, canned tuna or chicken in water are at the top of the list. Cats can also have some plain, boneless meat, fish, or chicken, without the skin and fat. Shredded deli meat is okay, as is sodium-free broth. Store-bought cat treats are also fine. If your furball likes fruits and veggies, she can have small amounts of sweet potato, berries, bananas, spinach, or other suitable produce. Ask your vet for more information on safe and unsafe fruits and veggies.

Unsafe Treats

Never give Fluffy anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives. Meat on the bone is also unsafe, as are raw meat, fish, dough, or yeast. Fatty meats, like bacon and sausage, are unsuitable as well. In fact, anything high in fat should be avoided. Some other unsafe foods include grapes, currants, and raisins; chocolate; alcohol; pitted fruits; nuts; anything that contains xylitol; and fried or processed foods. Sweets are also off the menu. (Note: although studies have shown that cats can’t taste sweetness, some kitties apparently never got this memo. There are definitely some furballs out there who love cakes and donuts! Play it safe, and offer Fluffy something else.)

Dairy

We can’t really talk about cat treats without discussing dairy products. The image of kitties happily lapping up milk is definitely a cultural icon. It’s also incorrect. In fact, many kitties are lactose-intolerant. And, while some furballs can tolerate tiny amounts of milk, it’s really not the best treat for them. Offer Fluffy some cat milk, which you can find in many pet stores, instead. Contact us at Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cy-Fair pet clinic, anytime. We’re dedicated to keeping your cat happy, healthy, and purring!