Human Food For Cats

As cat owners, we often find ourselves tempted to share our food with our feline friends. The sight of those pleading eyes can be hard to resist. But before you hand out some begging strips to your kitties, know first which human foods are safe and harmful to them.

Cats have specific dietary needs, but some human foods can be beneficial and enjoyed by pets. The key is to feed these foods in moderation. Remember this as we answer “What human foods are safe for cats to eat?”

8 Safe and Healthy Human Foods for Cats

Here’s a list of good cat treats you can find in your kitchen:

1. Chicken

Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which maintains your cat’s muscle mass and overall health. Feeding them cooked chicken without any seasoning, skin, or bones can be a tasty occasional treat. Make sure it’s fully cooked to avoid bacterial contamination!

2. Fish

Many cats love the taste of fish, and some naughty kitties have been known to steal fish from unmanned kitchen tables. And who can blame them? Fish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Cooked fish like salmon or tuna served plain without any seasoning can be a healthy treat. If you don’t want to cook, you can grab a can of Purr Delight, which is made from 100% tuna and nutrient-packed moringa.

3. Eggs

Grab a box of eggs for your cat when you go grocery shopping. Eggs are another excellent source of protein and can be given safely to them in small amounts. Plain scrambled or boiled eggs can make for a nutritious snack. They also contain essential amino acids and vitamins that are good for your cat’s health.

4. Pumpkin

Vegetables for cats? Yes, as long as you don’t feed them a purely plant-based diet (some cat owners swear that their plant-based fed pets are healthy, but a study from BMC Vet Rest shows that their assertions need further objective evaluations). Pumpkin is rich in fiber and can aid in digestion. If your cat is finding it hard to poop and has gastrointestinal issues, adding a bit of cooked plain and mashed pumpkin can help.

5. Blueberries

Blueberries are perfectly safe for cats, but make sure you only feed them in small amounts! PetMD (https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-blueberries) advises giving your pet only two or three berries every few days since the fruit has a very high sugar content. If your cat is obese or diabetic or has pancreatitis, don’t feed them blueberries! Or better yet, ask your veterinarian before giving these sweet berries as a treat.

6. Carrots

Carrots are known to be a good source of  fiber and vitamins such as potassium, calcium, and iron. All of these boost your cat’s immune system and overall health. Always peel the skin and avoid feeding it raw.  Well-cooked plain and peeled carrots are easier for cats to digest. 

7. Green Beans

Want to add some variety to your cat’s diet? Adding some green beans can do the trick. They’re low in calories and high in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, making them a perfect snack. Just like any other vegetable on this list, give green beans in small servings and make sure they’re cooked well. Uncooked beans can be a choking hazard for your pet.

8. Plain Yogurt

Did you know that many cats become lactose intolerant as they get older? This means that you should avoid dairy products like milk for your cats. However, Metropolitan Veterinary Center says you can still give them yogurt since the lactose in the yogurt is already broken down. Choose plain yogurt without sweeteners or vanilla, since these additives aren’t healthy for your cat.

Understanding Cat Nutrition

To help you choose the right cat food and other human food that are safe for cats, let’s understand the basics of feline nutrition. 

Your Cat Is A Meat-Eater

Numerous studies show that cats are obligate carnivores and need a high protein diet. As DVM360 says, our cats’ diet in the wild consists primarily of animal-based proteins, such as those found in mice, birds, and other small animals. They typically eat 10-20 small meals throughout the day and night with each meal providing a 23 kilocalories. This frequent eating pattern persists in domestic cats who eat small meals with a caloric content similar to that of a mouse. So if you’re wondering why your feline friend visits their food bowl all the time and gives you the side eye when it’s empty, it’s because they’re just following their natural instincts.

Your Cat Needs These Essential Nutrients And Vitamins

Aside from animal-based protein, VetHelpDirect and DVM360 says your cats need these nutrients and vitamins in their diet:

• Taurine - for normal vision, heart muscle function, normal development, a healthy immune system
• Arginine - to eradicate toxic by-products after food is digested
• Arachidonic Acid - for fat utilization and energy production
• Niacin Or Niacinamide - to control phosphorus level in the blood
• Methionine And Cystine - for protein synthesis, hair production, and felinine formation (an amino acid)
• Vitamin A - for good vision, healthy skin, bone and muscle growth, reproduction, and healthy epithelial tissues
• Vitamin D - for regulating calcium and phosphorous levels
• Water-Soluble B Vitamins - for normal carbohydrate and cellular metabolism, healthy skin, and proper digestion

How To Feed Human Food To Cats

When introducing human food to your cat’s diet, always do so in moderation. Here are some tips to do it safely:

• Start with a small amount to see how your cat reacts. Some may have allergies or sensitivities that aren’t readily apparent.
• Avoid seasonings and and additives, which may be harmful and cause digestive issues
• Consult your vet before feeding your cat human food. Your cat may have specific dietary requirements.
• Always feed them a well-balanced diet. The human foods on this list shouldn’t be their sole source of nutrition.

Share Safe, Health Food With Your Cats in Moderation

Sharing food with our cats can be a rewarding experience, as long as the foods we offer are safe for them and given in moderation. This food list can be delightful treats that add variety to their diet. However, always introduce new food cautiously and with the advice of your vet. By understanding the dietary needs of our feline friends, we can help them live happier and healthier lives. And which loving cat owner doesn’t want that?