There are human food that owners can give to cats, and there are also human food that are bad for them.
In “People Foods Cats Can Eat” from WebMD, the following food can be given to cats:
1. Meat
2. Whole grains
3. Fish
4. Eggs
5. Vegetables
6. Cheese
Here is the list of food that are toxic to cats or bad for cats:
1. Chocolate
2. Grapes and raisins
3. Onions and garlic
4. Macadamia nuts
5. Bread dough
6. Alcohol
7. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum and candy
Meat
Unknown to many, cats are meat eaters. They need the protein from meat to keep their heart strong and for good eyesight.
You can give cooked beef, chicken, turkey, and small amounts of lean deli meats.
Do not give raw or spoiled meat. It will make your cat sick.
To put it simply, what you can not and will not eat should not be given to your pet.
Whole Grains
You can give oats to your cat which is a good source of protein also.
Other grains that many cats like are:
1. corn and polenta (a coarsely ground cornmeal, has a good texture for them);
2. brown rice;
3. barley;
4. wheat berries (but mash them first);
5. smaller grains like millet and couscous; and
6. whole wheat breadcrumbs.
Please cook the grains so that the cat can digest these well.
To be continued next week
Fish
Cats are given fish because it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which help keep your cat's eyes healthy.
Omega-3 fatty acids also prevent arthritis, kidney disease, and heart disorders.
Fish which is canned or cooked is okay but not SUSHI. Raw fish is not good for your cats.
Eggs
Another good source of protein are eggs but make sure they are cooked.
Vegetables
Cats can not taste sweet flavors, thus, not all cats like vegetables and fewer like fruits.
But these are good sources of vitamins and have fiber and water to help with digestion.
You can give fresh cucumber or cantaloupe, steamed broccoli, or asparagus.
Cheese
A high-protein snack is a cheese but give small amounts only. Or you can skip this if you give meat or egg as cheese is less “complete” as a protein source.
A number of cats’ can't handle dairy, so please observe your cat after giving a SMALL AMOUNT of cheese or any treat with dairy product. If the cat develops diarrhea, stop giving cheese altogether.
As WebMD said, “ Don't let curiosity, well, you know. Keep foods not meant for your cat in a place she can't get to them.”
It added: “All Calories Count! Kitty should only get ‘extras’ occasionally. His regular meals should be a high-quality cat food (look for a statement from AAFCO — the Association of American Feed Control Officials — on the label). If you give him food that's meant for people, talk to your vet about what and how often you should add to his diet. Overfeeding can lead to an overweight cat and health problems.”