Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that they require animal protein to survive. However, this does not mean that they cannot eat some human foods. In fact, there are a number of human foods that are safe for cats to eat, and some of these foods can even be beneficial for your cat's health.
Of course, you should never feed your cat anything that is toxic to cats, such as chocolate, grapes, or onions. You should also avoid feeding your cat table scraps, as these can be high in fat and calories, and may contain ingredients that are harmful to cats.
With that in mind, here are some human foods that you can safely feed your cat:
What Human Food Can Cats Eat
Here are 10 important points about what human food cats can eat:
- Cooked chicken
- Cooked fish
- Eggs
- Oatmeal
- Plain yogurt
- Cheese
- Green beans
- Carrots
- Apples
- Blueberries
These foods are safe for cats to eat in moderation, and some of them can even be beneficial for your cat's health. However, it is important to avoid giving your cat too much of any one food, and to make sure that your cat's diet is primarily made up of high-quality cat food.
Cooked Chicken
Cooked chicken is a great source of protein for cats, and it is also a relatively low-fat food. This makes it a good choice for cats who are overweight or have digestive problems.
When feeding your cat cooked chicken, be sure to remove all of the bones and skin. You should also avoid giving your cat chicken that has been seasoned with salt, pepper, or other spices, as these can be harmful to cats.
The best way to cook chicken for your cat is to boil or bake it. You can also grill or roast chicken, but be sure to remove the skin before cooking.
You can feed your cat cooked chicken as a treat or as part of their regular diet. If you are feeding your cat cooked chicken as part of their regular diet, be sure to mix it with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat cooked chicken:
- Start by giving your cat a small amount of cooked chicken to see how they react. Some cats may be allergic to chicken, so it is important to watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation.
- Do not feed your cat raw chicken, as this can contain bacteria that can make your cat sick.
- Cooked chicken should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to six months.
Cooked Fish
Cooked fish is another great source of protein for cats, and it is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your cat's skin and coat. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help to reduce inflammation and improve your cat's joint health.
When feeding your cat cooked fish, be sure to remove all of the bones and skin. You should also avoid giving your cat fish that has been seasoned with salt, pepper, or other spices, as these can be harmful to cats.
The best way to cook fish for your cat is to boil or bake it. You can also grill or roast fish, but be sure to remove the skin before cooking.
You can feed your cat cooked fish as a treat or as part of their regular diet. If you are feeding your cat cooked fish as part of their regular diet, be sure to mix it with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat cooked fish:
- Start by giving your cat a small amount of cooked fish to see how they react. Some cats may be allergic to fish, so it is important to watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation.
- Do not feed your cat raw fish, as this can contain bacteria that can make your cat sick.
- Cooked fish should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days. You can also freeze cooked fish for up to six months.
- Some types of fish, such as tuna and salmon, are high in mercury. It is best to avoid feeding your cat these types of fish more than once a week.
Eggs
Eggs are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals for cats. They are also a relatively low-calorie food, making them a good choice for cats who are overweight or have digestive problems.
- Can cats eat eggs?
Yes, cats can eat eggs, but they should be cooked before feeding them to your cat. Raw eggs can contain bacteria that can make your cat sick.
- How should I cook eggs for my cat?
The best way to cook eggs for your cat is to boil or scramble them. You can also bake eggs, but be sure to remove the shell before cooking.
- How often can I feed my cat eggs?
You can feed your cat eggs once or twice a week. Be sure to mix the eggs with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
- What are the benefits of feeding my cat eggs?
Eggs are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals for cats. They can help to improve your cat's skin and coat, and they can also help to reduce inflammation and improve your cat's joint health.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat eggs:
- Start by giving your cat a small amount of cooked egg to see how they react. Some cats may be allergic to eggs, so it is important to watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation.
- Do not feed your cat raw eggs, as this can contain bacteria that can make your cat sick.
- Cooked eggs should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days. You can also freeze cooked eggs for up to six months.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a whole grain that is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for cats. It is also a relatively low-calorie food, making it a good choice for cats who are overweight or have digestive problems.
- Can cats eat oatmeal?
Yes, cats can eat oatmeal, but it is important to cook it first. Raw oatmeal can be difficult for cats to digest.
- How should I cook oatmeal for my cat?
To cook oatmeal for your cat, simply boil or microwave it according to the package directions. Once the oatmeal is cooked, let it cool slightly before feeding it to your cat.
- How often can I feed my cat oatmeal?
You can feed your cat oatmeal once or twice a week. Be sure to mix the oatmeal with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
- What are the benefits of feeding my cat oatmeal?
Oatmeal is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for cats. It can help to improve your cat's digestion and can also help to reduce inflammation and improve your cat's joint health.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat oatmeal:
- Start by giving your cat a small amount of cooked oatmeal to see how they react. Some cats may be allergic to oatmeal, so it is important to watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation.
- Do not feed your cat raw oatmeal, as this can be difficult for them to digest.
- Cooked oatmeal should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days. You can also freeze cooked oatmeal for up to six months.
- Do not add any sugar or salt to the oatmeal before feeding it to your cat.
Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt is a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics for cats. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help to improve your cat's digestion and immune system.
When choosing a yogurt for your cat, be sure to choose a plain yogurt that does not contain any added sugar or flavoring. You should also avoid yogurt that is low-fat or non-fat, as these yogurts may not contain enough nutrients for your cat.
You can feed your cat plain yogurt as a treat or as part of their regular diet. If you are feeding your cat plain yogurt as part of their regular diet, be sure to mix it with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat plain yogurt:
- Start by giving your cat a small amount of plain yogurt to see how they react. Some cats may be allergic to yogurt, so it is important to watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation.
- Do not feed your cat yogurt that contains any added sugar or flavoring, as these can be harmful to cats.
- You can feed your cat plain yogurt once or twice a week. Be sure to mix the yogurt with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
- Plain yogurt should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than two weeks.
Cheese
Cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and fat for cats. However, it is important to feed your cat cheese in moderation, as it can be high in calories and fat.
- Can cats eat cheese?
Yes, cats can eat cheese, but it is important to feed it to them in moderation. Cheese is high in fat and calories, so it should only be given to your cat as a treat or occasional snack.
- What kind of cheese can I give my cat?
You can give your cat any type of cheese, but hard cheeses like cheddar and Swiss are generally better than soft cheeses like brie and camembert. This is because hard cheeses are less likely to cause digestive problems in cats.
- How much cheese can I give my cat?
You should only give your cat a small amount of cheese as a treat. A good rule of thumb is to give your cat no more than one ounce of cheese per week.
- What are the benefits of feeding my cat cheese?
Cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and fat for cats. It can also help to improve your cat's dental health by removing plaque and tartar from their teeth.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat cheese:
- Start by giving your cat a small amount of cheese to see how they react. Some cats may be allergic to cheese, so it is important to watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation.
- Do not feed your cat cheese that is moldy or spoiled.
- Cheese should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than two weeks.
Green Beans
Green beans are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for cats. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a good choice for cats who are overweight or have digestive problems.
You can feed your cat green beans as a treat or as part of their regular diet. If you are feeding your cat green beans as part of their regular diet, be sure to mix them with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat green beans:
Before feeding green beans to your cat, be sure to remove the ends and cut them into small pieces. This will make them easier for your cat to eat and digest.
You can feed your cat fresh, cooked, or canned green beans. If you are feeding your cat canned green beans, be sure to rinse them thoroughly before serving.
You can add green beans to your cat's food bowl or you can give them to your cat as a treat.
Green beans should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days.
Here are some of the benefits of feeding your cat green beans:
- Green beans are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for cats.
- They are low in calories and fat, making them a good choice for cats who are overweight or have digestive problems.
- Green beans can help to improve your cat's digestion and can also help to reduce inflammation.
- Green beans are a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your cat's cells from damage.
Carrots
Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and fiber for cats. Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body, which is essential for good vision, a healthy immune system, and healthy skin and coat.
Fiber is important for a healthy digestive system. It can help to prevent constipation and diarrhea, and can also help to control blood sugar levels.
You can feed your cat carrots as a treat or as part of their regular diet. If you are feeding your cat carrots as part of their regular diet, be sure to mix them with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat carrots:
Before feeding carrots to your cat, be sure to wash them thoroughly and remove the tops and bottoms.
You can feed your cat raw, cooked, or steamed carrots. If you are feeding your cat raw carrots, be sure to cut them into small pieces to prevent choking.
You can add carrots to your cat's food bowl or you can give them to your cat as a treat.
Carrots should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days.
Here are some of the benefits of feeding your cat carrots:
- Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and fiber for cats.
- Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body, which is essential for good vision, a healthy immune system, and healthy skin and coat.
- Fiber is important for a healthy digestive system. It can help to prevent constipation and diarrhea, and can also help to control blood sugar levels.
- Carrots are a low-calorie snack that can help to keep your cat's weight in check.
Apples
Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for cats. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your cat's cells from damage.
You can feed your cat apples as a treat or as part of their regular diet. If you are feeding your cat apples as part of their regular diet, be sure to mix them with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat apples:
Before feeding apples to your cat, be sure to wash them thoroughly and remove the core and seeds. The core and seeds contain cyanide, which can be toxic to cats.
You can feed your cat raw, cooked, or steamed apples. If you are feeding your cat raw apples, be sure to cut them into small pieces to prevent choking.
You can add apples to your cat's food bowl or you can give them to your cat as a treat.
Apples should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days.
Here are some of the benefits of feeding your cat apples:
- Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for cats.
- Apples are a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your cat's cells from damage.
- Apples can help to improve your cat's digestion and can also help to reduce inflammation.
- Apples are a low-calorie snack that can help to keep your cat's weight in check.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals for cats. Antioxidants can help to protect your cat's cells from damage, while vitamins and minerals are essential for good health.
You can feed your cat blueberries as a treat or as part of their regular diet. If you are feeding your cat blueberries as part of their regular diet, be sure to mix them with a high-quality cat food to ensure that your cat is getting all of the nutrients they need.
Here are some additional tips for feeding your cat blueberries:
Blueberries should be fed to cats in moderation, as too many blueberries can cause digestive problems.
Before feeding blueberries to your cat, be sure to wash them thoroughly.
You can feed your cat fresh or frozen blueberries. If you are feeding your cat frozen blueberries, be sure to thaw them before serving.
You can add blueberries to your cat's food bowl or you can give them to your cat as a treat.
Blueberries should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days.
Here are some of the benefits of feeding your cat blueberries:
- Blueberries are a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals for cats.
- Antioxidants can help to protect your cat's cells from damage.
- Blueberries are a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system.
- Blueberries are also a good source of fiber, which can help to improve your cat's digestion.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about what human food cats can eat:
Question 1: What are some human foods that are safe for cats to eat?
Answer 1: Some human foods that are safe for cats to eat include cooked chicken, cooked fish, eggs, oatmeal, plain yogurt, cheese, green beans, carrots, apples, and blueberries.
Question 2: How often can I feed my cat human food?
Answer 2: Human food should only be given to cats as an occasional treat. It should not make up more than 10% of your cat's daily diet.
Question 3: What are some signs that my cat is allergic to a human food?
Answer 3: Signs that your cat may be allergic to a human food include vomiting, diarrhea, skin irritation, and difficulty breathing.
Question 4: What should I do if my cat eats something that is toxic to cats?
Answer 4: If your cat eats something that is toxic to cats, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
Question 5: Can I give my cat human food that has been seasoned with salt, pepper, or other spices?
Answer 5: No, you should not give your cat human food that has been seasoned with salt, pepper, or other spices. These seasonings can be harmful to cats.
Question 6: Can I give my cat raw meat or fish?
Answer 6: No, you should not give your cat raw meat or fish. Raw meat and fish can contain bacteria that can make your cat sick.
Question 7: What are some tips for feeding my cat human food safely?
Answer 7: Some tips for feeding your cat human food safely include:
If you have any other questions about what human food cats can eat, please consult with your veterinarian.
In addition to the foods listed above, there are a number of other human foods that cats can eat in moderation. However, it is important to do your research before feeding your cat any new food. Some human foods can be toxic to cats, so it is always best to err on the side of caution.
Tips
Here are some tips for feeding your cat human food safely:
Tip 1: Start slowly and gradually introduce new foods.
When introducing a new human food to your cat, start by giving them a very small amount. This will help to prevent digestive problems. You can gradually increase the amount of food you give them over time, as long as they continue to tolerate it well.
Tip 2: Avoid giving your cat human food that is high in fat, salt, or sugar.
Human food that is high in fat, salt, or sugar can be harmful to cats. These foods can lead to weight gain, heart disease, and other health problems.
Tip 3: Cook all meat and fish thoroughly before feeding it to your cat.
Raw meat and fish can contain bacteria that can make your cat sick. Cooking the meat or fish will kill the bacteria and make it safe for your cat to eat.
Tip 4: Remove all bones from meat and fish before feeding it to your cat.
Bones can be a choking hazard for cats. They can also splinter and cause damage to your cat's digestive system.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your cat enjoys human food safely and without any health problems.
In conclusion, there are a number of human foods that cats can eat safely. However, it is important to feed these foods to your cat in moderation and to avoid giving them any food that is toxic to cats. If you have any questions about what human food your cat can eat, please consult with your veterinarian.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed some of the human foods that cats can eat safely. We have also provided some tips for feeding your cat human food safely.
It is important to remember that human food should only be given to cats as an occasional treat. It should not make up more than 10% of your cat's daily diet. The majority of your cat's diet should consist of a high-quality cat food that is specifically designed to meet their nutritional needs.
If you are unsure whether or not a particular human food is safe for your cat to eat, it is always best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving it to them. You can also consult with your veterinarian for guidance.
By following the tips in this article, you can help to ensure that your cat enjoys human food safely and without any health problems. So next time you are having a snack, don't forget to share a little bit with your furry friend!