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What Foods Can Cats Eat That Humans Eat? | Everything You Need to Know to Safely Feed Your Cat

• Reina Marie Gonzales
• October 27, 2023December 4, 2023
• 0

Last Updated: December 4, 2023

No matter how much you love your cat, you can’t always have everything they need available. Emergencies happen when you suddenly realize you’ve run out of cat food! And, of course, your kitty, being the king or queen that they are, won’t stop demanding and throwing a fit until their hunger is satiated. So, what foods can cats eat that humans eat?

This is a daunting question, especially if you’re a new cat parent. If all you have available is food meant for you and your family, you can surely find something you can feed your cat in the meantime, that is, until you’re able to buy cat food. Keep in mind, though, that not all human foods are safe for cats, so read on to find out which human foods are safe for your fur baby’s consumption.

Understanding Your Cat’s Dietary Needs

A complete, well-balanced diet for your cat should contain the following nutrients:

Animal Protein

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need animal-based protein in their diet to survive and thrive. Unlike humans or dogs, who can get some of their protein from plant sources, cats need meat as their main source of protein. This is because they have a unique metabolism that requires certain amino acids (the building blocks of protein) that can only be found in animal tissue.

These amino acids include taurine, arginine, methionine, cysteine, and lysine. Without these, cats can develop serious health problems such as blindness, heart disease, liver failure, skin problems, and neurological disorders.

Fatty acids

There are two main types of fatty acids crucial for a cat’s survival: omega-3 and omega-6. They play a variety of essential roles in a cat’s body, including supporting brain health, aiding eye development, reducing inflammation, regulating blood pressure, assisting in wound healing, maintaining a healthy immune system, and contributing to cell structure and function.

Fatty acids are found in several cat-friendly foods, such as canola oil, flaxseed, salmon, Brussels sprouts, oysters, shrimp, soybean oil, and sardines.

Vitamins

Vitamins are essential organic compounds found in cat food, playing a crucial role in feline metabolism. They are present in various natural cat food ingredients, including animal tissues, vegetables, fruits, oils, seeds, and grains.

Cats require a range of vitamins, as outlined by the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials), to maintain their health:

• Vitamin A: Vital for vision, bone and tooth growth, reproduction, and skin health.
• Vitamin D: Regulates blood calcium and phosphorous levels for bone growth and maintenance.
• Vitamin E: Acts as an essential antioxidant.
• Vitamin K: Supports normal blood clotting.
• Thiamin: Plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism.
• Riboflavin: Releases energy from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
• Pantothenic Acid: Necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and some amino acids.
• Niacin: Crucial for processing fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
• Pyridoxine: Aids in amino acid, glucose, and fatty acid metabolism.
• Folic Acid: Required for DNA synthesis and methionine amino acid production.
• Biotin: Assists in fatty acid, amino acid, and DNA/RNA synthesis.
• Vitamin B12: Essential for fat and carbohydrate metabolism and nerve conduction.
• Choline: Functions as a neurotransmitter, contributes to cell membranes, and aids in lipid transport.

Minerals

Minerals, which are inorganic compounds crucial for normal bodily functions, are an essential component of a cat’s diet.

The AAFCO specifies the following minerals that must be present in cat food in sufficient quantities:

• Calcium: Vital for bone and tooth growth and maintenance and functions as an intracellular messenger.
• Phosphorus: Essential for bone and tooth health and plays a vital role in normal metabolism.
• Potassium: An electrolyte important for nerve function, muscle contraction, and heart rhythm.
• Sodium and Chloride: Electrolytes crucial for hydration, acid-base balance, nerve impulse transmission, and muscle contraction
• Magnesium: Important for enzyme function and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
• Iron: Necessary for oxygen transport throughout the body.
• Copper: Plays roles in iron absorption and transport, skin pigmentation, and skeletal growth.
• Manganese: Essential for metabolism, immune function, and bone formation and acts as an antioxidant.
• Zinc: Needed for carbohydrate, lipid, protein, and nucleic acid metabolism.
• Iodine: Required for the production of thyroid hormones.
• Selenium: Acts as an important antioxidant, working in conjunction with vitamin E.

As you can see, cats have very specific dietary needs that are different from humans. Therefore, you should not feed your cat the same food that you eat, although, of course, it’s okay to feed them a little, especially if you’ve run out of cat food and can’t buy some right away.

Ideally, though, you should always check with your veterinarian before giving your cat any new food, especially if your cat has any known health conditions or allergies. You should also introduce new foods gradually and monitor your cat’s reaction.

If your cat shows any signs of distress or discomfort after eating a new food, stop giving it to them and consult your vet.

What Meats Can Cats Eat?

Cats can eat a variety of meats as a source of protein and other nutrients. However, there are some things to consider when feeding your cat meat, such as:

•  The meat should be cooked thoroughly before giving it to your cat. Raw meat can contain bacteria or parasites that can make your cat sick. Cooking can kill these harmful organisms and make the meat safer for your cat.

•  The meat should be plain and unseasoned. Meat that is salted, spiced, or flavored can contain ingredients that are harmful or toxic for cats. For example, garlic, onion, chives, and scallions can cause anemia in them, while salt can cause dehydration and high blood pressure. On the other hand, artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, can cause low blood sugar and liver damage.

•  The meat should be boneless and skinless. Meat bones can be sharp and splinter easily, which can cause choking or injury to your cat’s mouth, throat, or digestive tract. Meat skin, on the other hand, can be fatty and hard to digest, which can cause pancreatitis or diarrhea.

You might want to offer your cat any of these meats or fish:

These meats can provide your cat with protein, iron, zinc, and other nutrients. However, you should only give them to your cat in moderation and as an occasional treat or supplement. They should not be the main or only source of protein for your cat, as too much of them can cause problems such as mercury poisoning, vitamin A toxicity, or urinary tract issues in your cat.

What Dairy Products Can Cats Eat?

The following are some dairy products that cats can eat safely:

•  Low-lactose or lactose-free milk or butter

•  Probiotic yogurt

•  Hard, aged cheese (cheddar)

•  Cottage cheese

•  Sour cream

These dairy products are either lactose-free or have low concentrations of lactose, which is the milk sugar that some cats have trouble digesting. They also provide protein, calcium, and other nutrients for cats. However, they should be given in moderation and as an occasional treat or supplement, not as a main or regular source of food for them, as too much dairy can cause obesity, diabetes, or other health problems.

Some dairy products cats should avoid:

•  Cow’s milk

•  Flavored or sweetened yogurt

•  Soft cheese (cream cheese, brie)

•  Ice cream

•  Custard

These dairy products are high in lactose, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or dehydration in cats who are lactose intolerant. They also contain ingredients that are harmful or toxic for cats, such as garlic, onion, salt, artificial sweeteners, or chocolate. In addition, they are high in calories and fat, which can lead to obesity and diabetes.

What Fruits Can Cats Eat?

Cats can eat some fruits safely as an occasional treat or supplement. However, not all fruits are suitable for them, and some can even be harmful or toxic for them. Therefore, it is important to know which fruits cats can eat and how to prepare them properly.

Some of the fruits that are safe for cats to eat include:

Bananas

These are a good source of vitamins B6 and C, potassium, and carbohydrates. Offer your cat sliced bananas that are either fresh or frozen.

Blueberries

These are considered superfoods and contain a blend of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. They have been found to help your cat see better at night. In addition, regular consumption may reduce the chance of them suffering from urinary tract infections.

Watermelon

This has a high water content that can help keep your cat hydrated on hot days. It also contains vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

CAUTION: Do not give your cat the rind or seeds of the watermelon, as these can cause digestive problems.

Apples

These are low in fat and contain beneficial fiber. They can make good snacks for cats on a calorie-controlled diet. Moreover, apples are high in vitamins A and C, both of which can help your cat’s bone and tissues stay as healthy as possible.

CAUTION: Always remove the core and seeds of the apple, as these contain trace amounts of cyanide.

Apricots

These are rich in beta-carotene, which can help your cat’s body fight off cancer-causing free radicals. They also contain vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Feed your cat only fresh apricots, not dried. Additionally, make sure your cat doesn’t have access to the apricot’s pit or leaves and stem, as these are all mildly poisonous.

These are some of the fruits that cats can eat safely.

You should give your cat fruits in moderation and in small quantities, as too much can cause obesity, diabetes, or other health problems in your cat.

What Vegetables Can Cats Eat?

Some of the vegetables that cats can eat safely include:

Broccoli

This is a good source of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. It can help with digestion and immunity.

Cook or steam it before giving it to your cat.

Brussels Sprouts

Cats can eat Brussels sprouts in moderation. They are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and potassium. However, they are also high in carbohydrates and can cause gas and bloating in cats if eaten in large amounts.

If you do choose to give your cat Brussels sprouts, be sure to steam or boil them until they are soft and easy to digest. Also chop them into small pieces so that your cat can easily eat them. Additionally, monitor your cat for any signs of gas or bloating after eating these vegetables.

Avoid giving your cat raw Brussels sprouts, as they can be difficult to digest and can contain harmful bacteria.

In addition, if your cat has any underlying health conditions, such as a sensitive stomach or kidney disease, it is important to talk to your veterinarian before giving them Brussels sprouts.

Carrots

These are a good source of vitamin A, which is essential for your cat’s vision and skin health. They also contain beta-carotene, which can help prevent cancer.

Cook or steam them before giving them to your cat.

Green beans

These are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and manganese. They can help with weight control and urinary tract health.

Cook or steam them before giving them to your cat.

Spinach

This is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin K. It can help with blood clotting and bone health.

CAUTION: Give it only in small amounts, as it contains oxalates that can cause kidney problems in cats.

Pumpkin

This is a good source of fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. It can help with digestion and hydration.

Cook or puree it before giving it to your cat.

You should only give your cat vegetables in moderation and in small quantities, as too much vegetables can cause obesity, diabetes, or other health problems in your cat.

What Carbohydrate Sources Can Cats Eat?

Some of the carbohydrate sources that cats can eat safely include:

Potatoes and sweet potatoes

These are sometimes used as gluten-free, grain-free carbohydrates in cat food. These ingredients are generally easy for cats to digest, as long as they are properly cooked. They also contain potassium and beta-carotene, which are important for cats’ health.

Oats

These are a good source of soluble fiber and the essential fatty acid linoleic acid. They can help with digestion and skin health.

Cook or soak them before giving them to your cat.

Brown rice

This is a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and B vitamins. It can also help with energy and metabolism.

Cook brown rice before giving it to your cat.

Quinoa

This is a good source of protein, iron, and magnesium. It can help with blood and muscle health.

Rinse and cook it before giving it to your cat.

You should give these carbohydrate-rich foods to your cat in moderation and in small quantities, as too much of them can cause obesity, diabetes, or other health problems in your cat.

Can Cats Eat Bread?

Cats can eat bread, but only if it is cooked and given in moderation. It provides no nutritional value for cats and can cause several health problems, such as choking, gastrointestinal distress, allergies, and toxicity. It also contains ingredients that are harmful or toxic for them, such as salt, sugar, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol.

Can Cats Eat Pasta?

Pasta is not toxic to cats, and its basic ingredients—flour, water, and eggs—are typically okay for them to eat.

The shape of the pasta also doesn’t matter due to its soft texture, so whether your preference is rotini or linguine, it should be fine for your cat to sample. However, you should give it to them only as an occasional treat or supplement and not as a main or regular source of food. Too much pasta can cause obesity, diabetes, or other health problems in your cat.

If you want to give your cat some pasta, you should make sure that it is cooked and plain. Avoid any pasta that has sauce, butter, cheese, or other toppings that can be harmful or toxic for cats. You should also give your cat only a small amount (about a teaspoon) once or twice a week at most.

Can Cats Eat Eggs?

Yes, cats can eat eggs, but only if they are cooked and given in moderation. They are a good source of protein and other nutrients for cats, but they also contain some substances that can be harmful or toxic for them if eaten raw or in excess.

You can boil, scramble, or poach them, but leave them plain and unseasoned. Avoid raw eggs, as they can contain bacteria or enzymes that can harm your cat.

Consider eggs as treats and not as a main or regular source of food for your cat. A large egg contains about 70 calories, which is too much for a cat’s daily intake. In addition, too many eggs can cause obesity, diabetes, or other health problems in your cat.

In addition, ensure that the eggs are boneless and shell-less. Egg bones can be sharp and splinter easily, which can cause choking or injury to your cat’s mouth, throat, or digestive tract. Moreover, eggshells can be hard to digest and may cause constipation or blockage in your cat.

You should give your cat only a small amount of egg (about a teaspoon) once or twice a week.

Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter?

Cats can technically eat peanut butter, but it is not recommended to give them this food, as it provides no nutritional value for them and can cause several health problems, such as choking, gastrointestinal distress, allergies, and toxicity.

Peanut butter also contains ingredients that are harmful or toxic for cats, such as salt, sugar, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol.

Can Cats Eat Unsweetened Apple Sauce?

Unsweetened applesauce is safe for cats to consume in small amounts. However, it is not recommended for regular feeding to them, as it may lead to obesity, malnutrition, or diabetes. In addition, it does not provide enough protein or other nutrients that cats need as obligate carnivores.

Moreover, it does not appeal to cats’ taste perception, as they cannot taste sweetness. Although unsweetened applesauce may contain some fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that can benefit cats’ health, these can also be obtained from other sources. Therefore, unsweetened applesauce should only be given to cats as an occasional treat or supplement and not as a substitute for a balanced cat food.

If you want to give your cat unsweetened applesauce, you should make sure that it does not contain any apple seeds, as these can be poisonous for cats. You should also avoid any applesauce that has added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or other flavorings that can be harmful or toxic for felines.

In addition, you should only give your cat a small amount of unsweetened applesauce (about a teaspoon) and monitor their reaction. If your cat shows any signs of distress or discomfort after eating unsweetened applesauce, stop giving it to them and consult your vet.

What Human Foods to Avoid Giving Your Cat

There are a few human foods that you should avoid giving your cat, even if they beg for them. Some of these foods are toxic to cats, while others can cause stomach upsets or other health problems.

Here’s a list of human foods to avoid giving your kitty:

If you’re not sure whether a particular food is safe for your cat to eat, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving it to them. It’s also a good idea to talk to your veterinarian about what foods are best for your cat’s individual needs.

If your cat eats something they shouldn’t, contact your veterinarian immediately. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Special dietary considerations for cats with specific health issues

If your cat has a specific health issue, such as kidney disease, diabetes, or obesity, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian before giving them any human food. Your veterinarian can help you create a special diet that meets your cat’s individual needs.

Here are some general tips for feeding human food to cats with specific health issues:

• Cats with kidney disease. Avoid giving your cat any foods that are high in phosphorus or protein, such as meat, poultry, and fish. Instead, opt for foods that are low in phosphorus and protein, such as cooked vegetables and rice.
• Cats with diabetes: Avoid giving your cat any foods that are high in sugar or carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta, and sweets. Instead, opt for foods that are low in sugar and carbohydrates, such as meat, poultry, and fish.
• Cats with obesity: Avoid giving your cat any high-calorie foods, such as processed foods and treats. Instead, opt for low-calorie foods, such as cooked vegetables and lean protein.

It’s also important to note that some human foods that are safe for healthy cats may be harmful to cats with specific health issues. For example, grapes and raisins are toxic to all cats, but they can be especially dangerous for cats with kidney disease.

If you’re unsure about whether a particular human food is safe for your cat with a specific health issue, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving it to them. Talk to your veterinarian about what foods are best for your cat’s individual needs.

General Tips for Feeding Your Cat Human Food

Here are some general guidelines to help you ensure that you’re giving your cat human food that’s safe for them:

Always cook the food before feeding it to your cat

Raw meat and poultry can contain harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can make your cat sick. Cooking the food kills these bacteria and makes it safe for your cat to eat.

Avoid giving your cat any processed foods, such as sausage, bacon, or ham

Processed foods are often high in fat, salt, and preservatives, which can be harmful to cats. They may also contain spices or other ingredients that are toxic to them.

Avoid giving your cat any foods that are high in sugar or salt

Sugar and salt can cause a variety of health problems in cats, including diabetes, obesity, and kidney disease. It’s best to avoid giving your cat any foods that are high in either of these ingredients.

Remove any bones from meat and poultry before feeding it to your cat

Bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

Avoid giving your cat any dairy products, such as milk, cheese, or yogurt

Many cats are lactose intolerant and cannot digest dairy products properly.

Only feed your cat small amounts of human food

Human food should not be a substitute for a complete and balanced cat diet. Feeding your cat too much human food can lead to weight gain, malnutrition, and other health problems.

Monitor your cat’s health after feeding them any new food

If you give your cat a new human food for the first time, it’s important to monitor their health for any signs of an allergic reaction or other side effects. If you notice any problems, such as skin irritation, diarrhea, or vomiting, stop feeding your cat the food and contact your veterinarian.

Final Thoughts

We all have emergencies, and one of them can involve not having cat food for your kitty. While there are human foods that you can safely feed your cat, there are more that are toxic for them. As such, be sure to do your research before you give them any food that’s not specifically intended for cats.

However, if you don’t have the time to research, here are some easy-to-remember guidelines:

• Meats are safe for your cat as long as they’re cooked, deboned, and unseasoned.
• Grains are safe for your cat as long as they’re cooked and unseasoned.
• Eggs are safe as long as they’re cooked and unseasoned.
• Avoid giving your cat any processed food.
• Avoid giving your cat any fruit or vegetable if you’re not able to verify that it’s safe for them.

Also remember that human food does not contain all the nutrients your cat needs to stay healthy, so it should only be given occasionally. As much as possible, you should give it only as a last resort.

Ensuring that your cat eats safe and nutritious food will help them live a long and healthy life, which also means more joy and happiness shared between the two of you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key nutrients that cats need in their diet?

Cats require animal protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to thrive.

Can cats eat cooked meat?

Yes, cats can eat cooked meat, but it should be plain, boneless, and unseasoned.

Is it safe for cats to consume dairy products?

Cats can have low-lactose or lactose-free dairy products like milk, butter, and certain cheeses in moderation.

Which fruits can cats eat safely?

Cats can safely eat fruits like bananas, blueberries, watermelon, apples (core and seeds removed), and apricots in moderation.

Are vegetables suitable for cats?

Cats can eat certain vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, green beans, spinach, and pumpkin, when cooked or steamed.

Can cats have carbohydrates like potatoes or rice?

Cats can have carbohydrate sources like potatoes, sweet potatoes, oats, brown rice, and quinoa when properly cooked.

Is bread safe for cats?

Bread can be eaten by cats in moderation, but it provides no nutritional value and can cause health problems.

Can cats have pasta?

Cats can have plain, cooked pasta as an occasional treat, but it should not be a regular source of food.

Is it okay for cats to eat eggs?

Cats can eat cooked eggs in moderation, but they should be plain and unseasoned.

What human foods should be avoided for cats?

Avoid giving cats foods like onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, alcohol, and foods high in sugar or salt. Always consult your veterinarian when unsure.