People Foods Cats Can Eat

Most of your kitty's diet should be a nutritionally complete cat food, but you can give them a treat from your plate every once in a while. You just need to know how to choose feline-friendly snacks with nutrients they need. And if you do give them fish, be sure it isn't raw.

Cats are meat eaters, plain and simple. They have to have protein from meat for a strong heart, good vision, and a healthy reproductive system. Cooked beef, chicken, turkey, and small amounts of lean deli meats are a great way to give them that. Raw or spoiled meat could make your cat sick. If you wouldn't eat it, don't give it to your pet.

Oats have a lot of protein per calorie, and they're easy to make. Many cats like corn, and polenta, a coarsely ground cornmeal, has a good texture for them. You can try brown rice, barley, and wheat berries, but you may need to mash them first. Cats tend to like smaller grains like millet and couscous. Just make sure any grains you give are cooked so your kitty can digest them fully. Whole wheat breadcrumbs are OK, too.

Fish have a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, which help your cat's eyes stay sharp as well as help with arthritis, kidney disease, and heart disorders. Canned or cooked fish is fine for a treat. But don't share your shashimi or sushi with raw fish. Raw fish in general isn't a good idea.

Eggs are another super source of protein for your cat. But make sure they're cooked. Like raw meat and fish, raw eggs can harm your kitty.

Not all cats like vegetables, and even fewer like fruits (felines can't taste sweet flavors). But they are a rich source of vitamins, and they're loaded with fiber and water to help with digestion. Try fresh cucumber or cantaloupe, steamed broccoli, or asparagus. But you might have better luck slipping them a veggie burger -- really -- just be careful the patty doesn't include onions or garlic. 

Cheese is a high-protein snack that's fine for your cat in small amounts. But the protein in cheese is less "complete" than the kind in meat, fish, and eggs. Also, many cats' tummies can't handle dairy, so go easy on the cheesy treats, and skip the saucer of milk.

Steer clear of these foods when sharing your snacks. They're toxic to cats:

• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins
• Onions and garlic
• Macadamia nuts
• Bread dough
• Alcohol
• Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum and candy

Don't let curiosity, well, you know. Keep foods not meant for your cat in a place they can't get to them.

Kitty should only get "extras" occasionally. Their regular meals should be a high-quality cat food (look for a statement from AAFCO -- the Association of American Feed Control Officials -- on the label). If you give them food that's meant for people, talk to your vet about what and how often you should add to their diet. Overfeeding can lead to an overweight cat and health problems.