Cats are lovely and curious creatures that many of us welcome into our homes as part of our families. They have their own special dietary needs, and while cat food is the best choice for their health, you might be wondering what are the human food that cats can eat safely. In this blog post, we’ll explore some human foods that are safe for your feline friends. Remember, while these foods can be offered occasionally, they should not replace your cat’s regular cat food.
20 Healthy Human Food That Cats Can Eat Safely
1. Cooked Chicken or Turkey
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need meat to thrive. Cooked chicken or turkey without any seasoning or bones can be a tasty and protein-rich treat for your cat. Just make sure it’s plain and cooked thoroughly, as raw meat can carry harmful bacteria.
2. Salmon
Salmon is another excellent source of protein for cats. You can offer your cat cooked salmon, but be sure to remove any bones and avoid adding any seasoning, especially salt.
3. Tuna
A lot of cats enjoy the flavor of tuna, and it’s safe to give them a small amount of canned tuna as an occasional treat. However, tuna should not be a regular part of their diet, as it lacks essential nutrients that cats need in their primary food.
4. Cooked Eggs
Cooked eggs provide a healthy protein source for cats. You can scramble or boil an egg without any seasoning and give your cat a small amount as an occasional treat. It’s essential to cook the egg thoroughly to avoid any risk of salmonella.
5. Cheese
Most cats enjoy cheese, but it should be offered in moderation. Cheese is high in fat and can be hard for some cats to digest, leading to upset stomachs or diarrhea. Consider offering small amounts as an occasional treat.
6. Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt is a safe source of probiotics and calcium for cats. It can be beneficial for their digestive health in small amounts. Ensure it contains no added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
7. Pumpkin
Plain, cooked pumpkin (not the pie filling with spices) can be helpful if your cat is experiencing digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea. It’s a good source of fiber and can help regulate their bowel movements.
8. Carrots
Carrots are safe for cats in small amounts. They provide vitamins and minerals, but they should be cooked to make them easier for your cat to digest. Chopping them into tiny pieces or mashing them can make them more manageable.
9. Green Beans
Green beans are a low-calorie vegetable that can be a healthy treat for your cat. You can offer them cooked and cut into small pieces. They provide some fiber and nutrients.
10. Blueberries
Blueberries are safe for cats and are a good source of antioxidants. You can offer a few blueberries as a treat, but make sure they are fresh and not part of a sugary dessert.
11. Rice
Plain, cooked rice can be helpful for cats with upset stomachs. It’s easy to digest and can help soothe their digestive system. Mixing a small amount of rice with some cooked chicken can be a gentle meal for a cat with tummy troubles.
12. Spinach
Spinach, as a nutritious leafy green, can be offered to cats in limited quantities. It’s a source of vitamins and minerals like iron and fiber. However, some cats may not like the taste.
13. Broccoli
Broccoli is safe for cats and contains vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s best to offer it cooked and in small, bite-sized pieces.
14. Cantaloupe
Cantaloupe is a sweet and hydrating fruit that cats can enjoy as an occasional treat. Remove the seeds and offer it in small, bite-sized portions.
15. Apples
Apples are safe for cats, but they should be offered without the seeds and core. Apples are a source of vitamins and fiber. Cats may prefer them sliced into small pieces.
16. Watermelon
Watermelon is another hydrating fruit that cats can eat in small amounts. Remove the seeds and offer the flesh in moderation.
17. Cooked Oatmeal
Plain, cooked oatmeal can be a gentle treat for cats. It’s a source of fiber and can be useful if your cat has an upset stomach. Ensure it’s not sweetened or flavored.
18. Cooked Lean Beef
Cooked lean beef, like boiled or grilled steak, can be a protein-rich treat for cats. Remove excess fat and seasoning, and offer it in small portions.
19. Squash
Squash, such as zucchini or butternut squash, can be given to cats when cooked and mashed. It’s a source of vitamins and fiber.
20. Peanut Butter
Cats can have a tiny bit of peanut butter but as an occasional treat. It should be given in very small amounts due to its high fat content. Make sure it doesn’t contain xylitol, a sweetener that can be toxic to cats.
Conclusion
While these human foods can be safe and even beneficial for your cat in moderation, it’s essential to remember that cats have specific dietary requirements. Their primary source of nutrition should always be high-quality commercial cat food. If you’re unsure about introducing new foods into your cat’s diet, consult with your veterinarian to ensure you’re making choices that are safe and appropriate for your feline friend. Always keep in mind that each cat is an individual, and what suits one may not suit another. Ensuring your cat receives love, care, and a well-balanced diet is key to maintaining their happiness and overall health for many years to come.
