Cats are obligate carnivores, so their diet should primarily consist of animal protein. However, some human foods can be safely given to cats in moderation as treats or supplements to their regular cat food. Here are human foods cats can eat:
- Cooked, unseasoned meats such as chicken, turkey, beef, and fish (like tuna), provided they are cooked thoroughly and deboned. Raw meats and fish should be avoided as they can cause illness
- Cooked eggs , either hard-boiled or scrambled, are a good source of protein and vitamins for cats
- Certain cooked and pureed vegetables such as pumpkin (helps with digestion), broccoli, green beans, peas, carrots, and spinach can be given in small amounts. These provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals but should never replace meat in the diet
- Some fruits like blueberries, cranberries (in small amounts, not juice or sauce), and melon (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew) can be offered occasionally, ensuring seeds and rinds are removed. These fruits provide vitamins and hydration but should be limited due to sugar content
It is important to feed these human foods only occasionally and in moderation, ideally making up no more than 10% of the cat's diet. The main diet should remain a complete and balanced cat food formulated for their nutritional needs
. Foods to avoid include chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, alcohol, caffeine, dairy products, raw meat or fish, and anything containing xylitol or excessive sugar, as these can be toxic or harmful to cats
. In summary, safe human foods for cats include cooked lean meats, cooked eggs, some cooked vegetables, and small amounts of certain fruits, all given without seasoning or additives and as occasional treats only.
