Which of the ones we usually have are foods cats can eat? I know mines are all the time! We want the best for them, even if we have to say no when our furry friends are continuously begging for the food we are eating.
Well, you don’t have to feel bad anymore for denying the table’s delicious food to your furry friend. This article will show a list of human foods cats can eat too.
Let’s have a look at what food we can share.
1. Eggs
Cooked eggs are safe for cats. They are rich in protein, amino acids, and fatty acids that are good for your kitty’s nutrition. They are also rich in vitamins A and B12, riboflavin, folate, iron, and selenium.
Although they are a good source of protein, they should never be the primary source of protein in your cat’s diet. Eggs should be given in moderation, as they can be high in cholesterol, which can cause feline obesity and other health problems. Most cats shouldn’t be eating more than one egg per day.
It would be best if you never gave your cat a raw egg, as there is a risk of salmonella infection.
Like with all foods, eggs could be an allergen for your cat. If you observe symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, contact your vet immediately. Rarely can food allergies cause anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition? [1]
2. Potatoes
Cooked potatoes and sweet potatoes are food that your cat can eat. Many commercial foods contain potatoes on their ingredients list.
Although you should never feed raw potatoes to your cat, as they contain solanine, which can cause problems for your furry friend, this compound also is found in non-ripped tomatoes and eggplant. Also, discard the potatoes with green skin, as they are high in solanine, and not even boiling the potato will kill it. You should avoid giving cats those too.
Sweet potatoes are pretty popular among cats, as they have vitamins, and cats like the sweet flavor.
It is not very healthy to feed too many potatoes to your cat. These are rich carbohydrates, which could contribute to gaining weight. [2]
3. Green beans
Green beans are a healthy alternative to many treats. They are full of vitamins and minerals, which include iron, calcium, vitamin B6, C, K, and A. Green beans are rich in fiber too, which is suitable for your cat’s bowel movements. [5]
Your furry friend will get all those vitamins and minerals daily from its cat food, so owners should only give green beans a healthy treat. Healthy snacks or treats shouldn’t exceed 10% of the food your kitty is eating daily.
Be aware and do not feed the following to your cat:
- Frozen beans with spices
- Canned beans, as they normally have oils, salt and spices that are no good for your cat
- Green beans cooked with oils and/or spices
- Green beans cooked with other vegetables, such as garlic and onions, which are harmful
- Large whole green beans can be a choking hazard, so try to cut them into smaller chunks.
4. Green peas
We all know green peas are healthy, and as much as we sometimes try to ignore them, they have plenty of properties that are good for humans and cats. [6]
All the varieties offer a food rich in fiber, protein, and vitamins. They have low calories too, making them a healthier option for the more overweight cats. Just incorporate them as an afternoon treat.
Another benefit of green peas are:
- Strengthen the immune system and reduce some arthritis symptoms.
- They have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Prevent constipation, which is good for your cat’s bowel movements.
- They have anti-oxidants, which would make your kitty more lively and healthy,
- The polyphenol in peas help to prevent cancer
- The vitamin K and B help strengthen the bones, preventing osteoporosis and arthritis when they age, a very common condition in senior cats.
Green peas have one downside, though. It is not recommended for some cats with kidney or urinary problems, as they might have difficulties processing the purine compound in peas, worsening the condition.
Always make sure to ask your vet if this is the case with your furry friend.
Don’t forget that, as with any superfood, moderation is key. Cats commonly get all the nutrients from their meals if their food is good.
5. Spinach
The short answer is yes, spinach is safe for cats, even though they contain oxalates. Just be sure to give it in moderation. Always check with your vet, as some medical conditions warrant oxalate restriction.
There is a risk of giving spinach to your kitty due to the content of oxalates. Oxalates are a naturally occurring in other vegetables such as beet, kale, collars, and quinoa. The oxalates block the ability of the body to absorb calcium and can create kidney and bladder stones when consumed in very high quantities. [7]
Some of the benefits of the spinach are:
- Spinach boost the immune system due to its high content in fibre
- Spinach is full of antioxidants, and it’s known to prevent cancer, and also is good for the heart, as it has a lot of iron and potassium
- Also is full of vitamins A, B, C, K, as well as calcium, which is good for reinforcing the bones and cartilages
Spinach can be consumed raw or cooked, and steaming is recommended as the best cooking option to preserve most nutrients. When cooking it, make sure not to add salt or other herbs, as it wouldn’t be as safe for your cat. Ensure to wash it properly as there are risks of contamination due to pesticides. It is advisable to buy organic spinach to avoid pesticide action. [8]
6. Carrots
Carrots are one of those foods beneficial to your cat and safe for them. They are low in calories, so they work well as alternative treats. They are crunchy, sweet, delicious, and full of vitamins and nutrients.
- Carrots have a lot of fibre, which is good for the digestive system of your cat.
- They are loaded with vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and vitamin K which is good for blood clotting.
- They are full of magnesium, manganese and phosphorus, which is required for energy production, amongst others.
- Carrots are a very good source of vitamin A and lutein, which is very good news for the eyesight
Make sure to get organic carrots, as per the risk of pesticides. If not, be sure of washing and peeling it properly before giving it to your cat. [9]
7. Pumpkin
Pumpkin is good, delicious, easy to get, sweet, and massively available during Halloween. It is very healthy food for you and your cat.
Pumpkin has the following benefits for your cat’s health: [10]
- Pumpkin is low in calories, which makes an excellent treat, especially if is slightly overweight.
- Pumpkin has a lot of vitamins and minerals, which include vitamin A, which is good in order to preserve eyesight. It also contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, assist in metabolism and helps with muscle health. It also contains some smaller amounts of vitamins C, Iron, Phosphorus and Magnesium.
- Pumpkin boosts the immune system. It has vitamin C, which helps with immune health. Also, there is some research that says that it prevents some types of cancer, as vitamin C combines with A and E, and other antioxidants.
- Pumpkin is good for your cat’s skin and coat. The high water contained in the pumpkin, together with vitamin A and Zinc, moisturize the skin and the coat, which avoids the skin from flaking as much.
- Pumpkin is high in fibre, which is good for the digestive system by making it regular
- Pumpkin has curcubacin, which can help control tapeworms and undesired parasites
While pumpkin is an excellent addition to your cat’s diet, it is essential to give it in moderation, as it is a low-calorie food. If your cat overeats will probably not be eating something else and will end up lacking some nutrients, leading to a non-balanced diet. Also is not good to give pumpkin to your cat if it has kidney issues. If you doubt, it is better to check with your vet. [11]
8. Cooked meat and fish
While the natural meal for cats is originally composed of raw meat, fish, and raw vegetables, raw meat and fish ingestion could be a source of salmonella toxicity. We avoid this by cooking it properly, which kills the bacteria. By doing this, you still provide your furry friend with all the protein and benefits of an all-natural diet. Make sure the meat is fresh and non-fatty. What is not good for us is not good for them. [12][13]
When cooking the meat or the fish, avoid adding any seasoning, as it wouldn’t be suitable for your cat.
Also, check there are no small bones that can splinter and your pet can choke on.
There is a rule. Make sure the meat or meat by-product is suitable for human consumption. Usually, if it is not ideal for humans is not suitable for your cat neither.
9. Chicken and turkey
Cooked chicken and turkey make an excellent meal replacement if you are out of cat food. Also, it’s a perfect complement to your cat’s food if the cat needs more protein.
Some of the benefits of chicken and the turkey include:
- They are a great source of protein
- They provide essential amino acids that maintain and support healthy muscles
- Chicken and turkey are rich in Omega 6 fatty acids, which help with the absorption of vitamins and nutrients. Also helps to regulate your pet’s energy
- It promotes healthy growth and development of your cat’s skin and coat.
- Chicken and turkey are rich in glucosamine, which can help prevent arthritis by strengthening bones and cartilages. This is particularly good, as arthritis is a very common and undiagnosed problem in senior cats.
While the cooked chicken and turkey are safe for your pet and have a good amount of nutrients, you should never give the raw chicken and turkey to your cat. While it is an extended belief that eating raw food helps maintain all the nutrients, it also carries bacteria. [14]
Contracting harmful bacteria isn’t suitable both for humans and their cats. Eating raw chicken and turkey has a risk of contracting salmonella.
When cooking the chicken and the turkey, we like to season the meat with salt, pepper, and herbs to make it tastier. There is no food more boring than a piece of bland chicken. Well, when cooking chicken or turkey for your kitty, make sure it stays that way. Adding salt, herbs, or any spices might add problems to his digestive system processing that food.
Also, make sure there are no bones that can splinter into smaller ones, as the risk of choking or harming the digestive system of your furry friend is high. The best pieces would be the boneless breasts.
10. Yogourt
Yogourt is a yummy dairy product with lots of benefits for us humans, but What about cats? Is it healthy for them? The quick answer is yes. One of our cats, Lucy, absolutely loves it!
Plain, low-fat, non-added sugar or sweeteners yogourt provides probiotic benefits and a significant source of calcium for your furry friend. Adding a small spoonful of yogurt to your cat’s daily meal can help his digestive system.
Make sure to read the label before buying any yogurt for your pup. Flavored yogourts are packed with sugar, and be careful with the ingredient Xylitol. If you see this ingredient on the list, discard it immediately, as Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is toxic to dogs. It is also essential to avoid certain flavors, like chocolate or coffee, toxic to cats.
Some cats have developed lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance translates is digestive problems, such as bloatedness or diarrhea. If this is the case with your cat, please consult your vet. [15][16][17]
11. Oatmeal
Oatmeal has been increasingly becoming part of many types of commercial cat food ingredients. It usually is safe to feed oatmeal to your feline companion.
It also has some favorable properties, beneficial for your kitty’s health:
- Oats are rich in vitamin B and omega 6 fatty acid, which promotes skin health.
- Oats are also high in fibre, (4 grams of fibre for every 240 grams of oats) which helps with your cat’s digestion and digestive system.
- Oats are a good source of beta-glucan, a type of fibre that has been associated with improved heart health. Studies have shown that oats improve cholesterol levels [18]
Although oats are a great source of nutrients and have a lot of health benefits, you should have some factors in consideration before sharing oatmeal with your cat.
- Not all types of oats are suitable for your cat. Raw oats can be difficult to digest and may cause some problems to your furry friend
- When purchasing oats, you should be clear from flavoured ones, as they might come with added sugar, chocolate, or even Xylitol, which is toxic to pets. [19]
- Bear in mind that increasing fibre very quickly can lead to digestive problems, including gas, bloating, or diarrhoea [20]
12. Rice
Cooked white rice is safe to give to your cat. Various types of commercial food have rice as their main ingredient. Although rice is better provided in moderation.
Also, it is common to give rice to your kitty when it has an upset or runny stomach to help regulate his digestion better, as it is low in fiber.
If your cat is diabetic, you can still feed a little white rice, but you should regulate the quantity. White rice has a higher glycemic index, which causes blood sugar levels to rise.
Rice is full of carbohydrates, which are essential in a diet, alongside protein and fat. Too many carbs can cause weight gain. You have to make sure to be moderate when feeding rice to your kitty. As long as the weight is fine and you do it in moderation, adding rice to your cat’s meal is fine. [21]
13. Blueberries
Blueberries are one of the most popular berries in the United States, and they are straightforward to find. And also delicious! Who hasn’t gone for a walk in the forest and come back with a basket full of them? I have. One of my favorite things to do with Dora, my pup. Also, Blueberries are very good for cats! And Tabby loves them!
Yes, blueberries are safe for cats. And on top of that, they are a very healthy treat for them.
- They have a lot of vitamins, like A, C, K… are found on a small blueberry. Vitamins boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, improves the skin and the coat, the normal function of the nerves, and also improves the density of the bones and articulations.
- They are a great source of minerals, like calcium, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. These minerals support bone structure and the ability to absorb vitamins and minerals.
- Blueberries are rich in antioxidants. They fight free-radicals responsible for molecular cell damage. This translates on a better cell recovery and anti-ageing process.
As with many fruits and vegetables, moderation is key. Treats should only be 10% of the daily food intake of your cat. For most pets, about ten blueberries will be a good amount.
Some cats can show intolerances or allergies. Please watch your kitty after giving him the blueberries and if you see any sign of digestive discomfort, consult with your vet. [22]
14. Watermelon
If cats can eat watermelon, the short answer is yes, but you have to take certain precautions before giving this fresh fruit to your kitty.
One of them is to try to take off the seeds first, feeding a seedless watermelon, as the seeds might harm your cat’s digestive system if it overeats those.
Also, you shouldn’t give the skin to your cat, as it is a challenging element to digest and might cause blockage in the digestive system.
The watermelon, like many fruits, has very positive health booster properties, an excellent treat for those hot days in summer.
- Watermelon is packed with vitamins A, B6 and C, and potassium, which boosts the immune system and works as an antioxidant. [23]
15. Fish oil
Fish oil is an excellent supplement for your cat’s diet. It is extracted from the fish tissue. It’s rich in Omega 3, 6, Glucosamine. Including fish oil in your cat’s meal has plenty of health benefits.
- Fish oils help improve your cat’s heart condition, reducing the risk of provoking arrhythmias or irregular heartbeat.
- Fish oil also keeps your kitty’s kidneys protected against potential disease.
- Also, it helps to prevent arthritis and to deal with the pain.
Fish oil supplements can be easily found and included in your cat’s meals to boost its health properties. [24]
Do you like foods cats can eat? What to do next?
The above items are the foods you can safely share with your cat, and I am sure they will love it as much as you do!
Also, remember that this food shouldn’t be a substitute for your cat’s daily food, although some of these ingredients can complement it and work as treats. They shouldn’t be more than 10% of your kitty’s daily food intake. If you want to get more ideas about treats, why don’t you check our nutrition guides?
If your cat has eaten something from your food counter and not feeling well after, check in with your local veterinarian about foods cats can eat.
In addition, check out the guidelines of human food that is not safe for cats to eat.
Also, as an extra, you can check if cats can have Bananas.
