Posted :
Author : Jessica Remitz
While we may consider cats to be members of our family, treating
them as such at mealtimes can cause more injury to them than just spoiling
their dinners. Here’s a look at the five most dangerous foods for your cat, how
they affect their bodies, and what to do in case of an emergency.
1. Onions/Garlic
Onions and garlic can cause the destruction of red blood
cells and lead to anemia in cats, Dr. Tina Wismer, medical director at the ASPCA Animal
Poison Control
Center says. “Cats tend
to be much pickier eaters as opposed to dogs, but we’ve seen cats eat an entire
cup of caramelized onions.”
Although the size of the dose determines the level of poisoning,
lethargy and a reduced appetite can be symptoms of a toxic reaction. The sooner
you diagnose potential poisoning in cats the better, so if they’re acting
strangely don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian.
2. Raw Eggs
Similarly to people, consumption of raw eggs can lead to salmonella
in cats, according to Dr. Wismer. Symptoms of the disease will vary but can
include vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. Salmonella can also be transmitted to
humans from animals, making it even more important to keep your cat away from
eggs and to properly wash your hands after baking or cooking with raw eggs.
3. Alcohol
Cats tend to be attracted to drinks with milk or cream in
them, Dr. Wismer says, making your holiday White Russian a potentially toxic
substance if consumed by your pet. Cocktails aside, alcohol can also be found
in desserts and can be created in your cat’s stomach if they ingest homemade or
store bought yeast dough used in making bread, rolls, and pizza. Even small
amount of alcohol (both ingested through alcoholic beverages and produced in
the stomach) can be life threatening, making it important to call your vet before
you notice any serious poisoning symptoms like seizures.
4. Raw Fish
Like raw eggs, raw meat and fish can cause food poisoning in
cats. Additionally, raw fish contains a compound that breaks down thiamine, an
important B1 vitamin for cats that, when missing, can cause serious
neurological problems in your cat, Dr. Wismer says.
“Pets aren’t just
small, fluffy humans,” says Dr. Wismer. “They have different dietary
requirements and metabolize things differently [than people]. Talk to your vet
about the things you should or shouldn’t feed your pets.”
5. Tuna
A diet rich in tuna can not only cause mercury poisoning in
your cat (just like people) but can also leave them malnourished because it
doesn’t contain all of the important vitamins and minerals your cat needs, Dr.
Wismer says. A bite now and then won’t hurt them, but it’s best to steer clear
of tuna as a main source of your cat’s diet.
~Blog Admin~
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