My kids would tell you plants and pets should not be allowed within arm’s reach of me. I tend to kill plants by over-watering them, and for the latter, well, let’s just say that there is always an opportunity for a treat. According to petmd.com, there are cat safe foods you can share. It’s simply a matter of knowing which ones are safe to feed your cat.
Your cat’s diet should be nutritionally sound. You just have to know which feline-friendly snacks have the nutrients he needs.
Meat
It’s no surprise cats love meat and they require that protein for a strong heart, good vision and a healthy reproductive system. Good choices are cooked beef (low in fat), chicken (white meat), and turkey (white meat).
Grains
If you like oats in the morning, it’s a good bet your cat will, too. They are easy to make and pack a punch per calorie when it comes to another source of protein. You can also offer brown rice, barley and wheat berries, but be sure to mash them first. Even whole wheat bread crumbs are okay to feed your cat.
Fish
Does your cat like fish? Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which aid in vision and also keep arthritis, kidney disease and heart disorders at bay, canned or cooked fish is a great treat. However, never offer raw fish. Keep the sushi indulgences to yourself.
If your cat likes tuna, offer it in moderation. It’s high in unsaturated fats, and can lead to a Vitamin E deficiency and fatty tissue inflammation in cats. .
Eggs
Eggs are also an excellent source of protein, but make sure they are fully cooked. They are also high in fat, so limit the amount you give your cat. Since many pet foods now contain eggs, more pets are developing allergies to them.
Veggies
Vegetables are rich in vitamins, fiber and water to aid in digestion, but not all cats enjoy them. You might offer some fresh cucumber, steamed broccoli or asparagus.
NEVER Share These Foods With Your Cat
There are several items you should NOT feed your cat, and these include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, bread dough, the artificial sweetener Xylitol, and alcohol.
So, enjoy sharing a nibble or two off your plate with your cat…on occasion and in moderation. The cat safe foods mentioned here should be a bite-size treat, but not a cat’s entire diet since they do not fulfill all their nutritional requirements.
Leave a comment and let us know what cat safe foods you share with your feline friend. We’d love to hear from you!
For more information on cat weight and nutrition, check out Cat Obesity: Are You Making Your Cat Fat?
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
