What foods for a cat? Guide to protect your feline
Welcome to the fascinating world of cats! Today, we will answer a very popular question among cat owners: what are the toxic foods for a cat? It is essential to know which foods can harm our adorable fur companions in order to assure them a long and healthy life.
Foods to avoid absolutely
Chocolate:
As with dogs, chocolate is toxic to cats. It contains theobromine, a substance that cats cannot properly metabolize, which can cause serious, even fatal symptoms.
Garlic and onions:
These two foods can cause anemia in cats by damaging their red blood cells. This includes all types of onions and garlic, whatever their shape (raw, cooked, powder, etc.).
Dairy products:
Many cats are lactose intolerant and can suffer from digestive disorders after consuming milk or other dairy products.
Alcohol:
Even in small quantities, alcohol can be very dangerous for cats, resulting in symptoms ranging from diarrhea to the depression of the central nervous system, even death.
Caffeine:
Caffeine is also toxic to cats and can cause symptoms similar to those of chocolate poisoning.
Fish and poultry bones:
These bones can fragment and cause internal damage or suffocation in cats.
Grapes and raisins:
These foods can cause kidney problems in cats.
Symptoms of intoxication in cats
If your cat has consumed a toxic food, it may have various symptoms, including:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness
- Excessive salivation
- Quick heart rate
- Difficulty breathing
What if your cat ingested a toxic food?
If you suspect that your cat has ingested a toxic food, it is crucial to react quickly and appropriately. Symptoms of food poisoning in cats can vary depending on the food consumed, but may include signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weakness, excessive salivation, rapid heart rate, and breathing difficulties.
- Stay calm: It is essential to stay calm to be able to act quickly and effectively. Your stress could also stress your cat more.
- Remove the food: If you see that your cat is eating a potentially toxic food, try to remove it immediately, while being careful not to be bitten or scratched.
- Contact a veterinarian: As soon as possible, contact your veterinarian or a veterinary emergency center. Clearly explain the situation, including the type of food that your cat has ingested, the quantity, as well as the symptoms that your cat has. Follow their instructions to the letter.
- Bring the food: If possible, bring a sample of the food that your cat has ingested to your veterinarian. This can help the veterinarian understand what could cause your cat's symptoms and how to treat it appropriately.
- Monitoring : Once your cat is under veterinary care, it will probably be necessary to monitor it closely to see how it reacts to treatment.
Food poisoning can be a serious veterinary emergency, so it is essential to act quickly. However, prevention is always the best option. Make sure to keep all the potentially toxic foods out of the reach of your cat and educate all your family members and your guests on the dangers of these foods.
Remember, your cat's health and well-being depend on you. Be vigilant and act responsible for guaranteeing a long and healthy life to your furry companion.
In summary, our dear feline friends, curious and fond of new discoveries, must be protected from foods that could be toxic to them. At Marly & Dan, we are deeply concerned with the well-being of our four-legged companions. If you have doubts about a particular food, it is always better to consult a veterinarian before giving it to your cat.
If you notice that your cat has signs of digestive discomfort, do not hesitate to consult our Marly & Dan site. We have a range of products specially designed to help your cat digestion and keep it healthy.