Toxic: call a vet
| Food | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate | Toxic | No. Chocolate is toxic to cats. Darker chocolate is more dangerous. |
| Grapes | Toxic | No. Grapes are on vets' do-not-feed lists for pets. |
| Onions | Toxic | No. Onions damage cats' red blood cells and can cause anemia. |
| Garlic | Toxic | No. Garlic is in the onion family and is toxic to cats. |
| Raisins | Toxic | No. Raisins are on vets' toxic lists for pets, just like grapes. |
| Coffee and caffeine | Toxic | No. Caffeine in coffee, tea and energy drinks is toxic to cats. |
| Chives | Toxic | No. Chives are an Allium, like onions and garlic. |
| Alcohol | Toxic | No. Even a small amount of alcohol can be deadly for a cat. |
| Leeks | Toxic | No. Leeks are in the onion family and should be kept away from cats. |
| Xylitol (sugar-free gum and candy) | Toxic | No. Xylitol is a sweetener the ASPCA lists as dangerous to pets. |
| Raw bread dough | Toxic | No. Raw yeast dough can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol. |
Best avoided
| Food | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Milk | Avoid | Best avoided. Many adult cats are lactose intolerant, and cow's milk can cause vomiting and diarrhea. |
| Citrus fruit | Avoid | Best avoided. Citrus oils and acid can irritate, though a small taste usually only upsets the stomach. |
| Raw meat | Avoid | Best avoided. Raw meat can carry Salmonella and E. coli. |
| Nuts | Avoid | Best avoided. Nuts are high in fat and can cause vomiting, diarrhea and pancreatitis. |
| Bones | Avoid | No. Bones can injure or block a cat's gut, which may need surgery. |
| Salty snacks | Avoid | Best avoided. Too much salt can cause serious illness. |
| Meat baby food | Avoid | Best avoided. Meat baby food is often seasoned with onion or garlic. |
| Fat trimmings and skin | Avoid | Best avoided. Fatty scraps can cause stomach upset and pancreatitis. |
Why onions and garlic are the big ones for cats
Onions, garlic, chives and leeks belong to the Allium family. The ASPCA says they can damage red blood cells and cause anemia, and that cats are more susceptible than dogs. They hide in stock, gravy, seasoned meat and meat baby food, so check labels before sharing anything.
What to do if your cat ate something on this list
- Note what it was, how much and when. Keep the packaging.
- Call your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).
- Don't try to make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control, "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"; PetMD, "Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Cats" (reviewed by Nicole Silva, DVM); VCA Animal Hospitals, "Can You Feed Pets Certain Fruits and Veggies?".
