🐱 A list of 6 dietary taboos for cats

Many Hong Kong cat lovers get the urge to share their favorite treats with their cats 🍗🥛🍫, thinking, "It's okay for a little while." But it is! 😿 Cats' bodies are built differently from humans. Some foods that are harmless to humans can be poisonous to cats, or even life-threatening. This time, I've compiled a list of six dietary taboos for cats , explaining each one in detail and offering my perspective. You'll understand why you shouldn't feed them anything carelessly, and why protecting your cat's health is paramount!

✨ Taboo 1: Onions, garlic and shallots

Why is it dangerous?

• Onions, garlic, leeks, and green onions contain thiosulfate , which can destroy cats' red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia .
• Symptoms of poisoning include: lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and dark red or brown urine.

Editor's perspective

I've seen owners feed their cats a small amount of soup scraps, thinking they're nutritious. The result was vomiting and a trip to the vet. 💔 Don't take chances! Even if the soup or seasoning contains onions or garlic, don't feed it to your cat.

✨ Taboo 2: Chocolate and caffeinated foods

Why is it dangerous?

• Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine , which can stimulate a cat's nervous system and heart.
• Symptoms of poisoning include: restlessness, rapid heartbeat, tremors, convulsions, and in severe cases, even death.

Editor's perspective

Many owners eat chocolate cookies themselves, then give them to their curious cats. Even a small amount can be fatal to a small cat. We strongly recommend keeping chocolate snacks safe and don't let your cat steal them!

✨ Taboo 3: Grapes and raisins

Why is it dangerous?

• Grapes and raisins can cause acute renal failure in cats. Although the toxin composition has not been fully confirmed, the risk is extremely high.
• Symptoms of poisoning include: vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, dehydration, and even kidney failure in a short period of time.

Editor's perspective

Some owners think fruit is healthy and want to share it with their cats. However, grapes are a real threat to cats. If you want to give a small amount of fruit, choose cat-safe varieties (like blueberries or small pieces of watermelon), but be sure to check carefully beforehand.

✨ Taboo 4: Milk and dairy products

Why is it dangerous?

• Many cats are born with lactose intolerance . Drinking milk will cause their stomachs to be unable to digest lactose, resulting in diarrhea and vomiting.
• Although there is an impression that "kittens drink milk", in fact, those are special milk replacers, not milk for humans to drink.

Editor's perspective

I used to think that "milk is cats' favorite" 🐱🥛, but now I know that was a misunderstanding. If you want to give your cat milk, you can buy lactose-free cat milk designed specifically for cats. It's much safer.

✨ Taboo 5: Alcohol and alcoholic foods

Why is it dangerous?

• Alcohol wreaks havoc on a cat's liver and nervous system.
• Even tiny amounts can cause vomiting, coma, breathing difficulties, or even death.

Editor's perspective

Some people think that "playing" means letting cats lick beer or wine, but this behavior is actually very dangerous. I recommend keeping all alcoholic foods (such as cakes and desserts) away from your cat.

✨ Taboo 6: Raw fish, raw meat and bones

Why is it dangerous?

• Raw fish and raw meat : May contain parasites or bacteria (such as Salmonella and E. coli).
• Thiaminase in raw fish : It destroys vitamin B1 and long-term consumption can cause neurological problems.
• Bones : Can break easily, get stuck in the throat or pierce the stomach.

Editor's perspective

I know some owners prefer to feed their babies raw food, but this requires professional guidance and strict handling. Otherwise, the risks are extremely high. We recommend choosing qualified freeze-dried or cooked products on the market, which are much safer.

🌟 Editor's summary

Cat food safety is the owner's first responsibility. 💡 Remember:

• Onions and garlic → Risk of anemia
• Chocolate Caffeine → Neurotoxicity
• Raisins → Kidney failure
• Milk and dairy products → gastrointestinal discomfort
• Alcoholic food → Liver neurotoxicity
• Raw fish, raw meat, and bones → Parasites and physical hazards

As long as the owner chooses carefully, avoids taboo foods, and uses balanced and nutritious cat food and snacks, the owner can be healthy and happy and accompany you for a long time! 😻💕