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Not all foods that are safe for humans are good for animals
Pet nutrition is a delicate matter. Not all dishes that are safe for humans are good for animals. RBC-Ukraine explains which products from the festive menu can harm a cat’s health.
Sausages, ham and smoked meats
Cats should not be given sausages, even if they look fresh or “homemade”. The ingredients often contain salt, spices, garlic and preservatives that are toxic to cats.
Smoked meats containing smoke additives and unhealthy fats are especially dangerous. Even a small portion can cause stomach upset, vomiting or intoxication. It is better to replace such treats with special cat snacks without spices.
Chocolate, candy and baked goods
Sweets are a categorical taboo for cats. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is poisonous to animals even in small doses. Sugar, sweeteners and chocolate coating can cause seizures, heart rhythm disturbances or even death.
In addition, baked goods often contain yeast and fats that are difficult to digest. Don’t experiment – even one bite of a sweet treat can be disastrous.
Bones and leftover meat
There’s often roast chicken or turkey on the festive table, but it’s not a good idea to share the bones with your pet. Boiled or roasted bones are especially dangerous – they can splinter into sharp fragments. Such pieces can injure the cat’s oesophagus or intestines.
Even meat with lots of spices, salt or marinade should not be given. If you want to give your cat meat, give him a piece of cooked meat without salt or spices.
Salads with mayonnaise and spices
Salads are a real trap for feline health. Mayonnaise contains vinegar, yolks, mustard and a lot of salt, which are bad for animals.
Plus, salads often contain onion or garlic – both of which cause anaemia in cats. Even salad vegetables soaked in dressing can cause stomach upset. Never let your cat lick the plate after a holiday meal.
Alcohol and fizzy drinks
Even a few drops of alcohol can cause serious poisoning in cats. Alcohol negatively affects the animal’s nervous system and liver. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, disorientation and seizures. Sweet carbonated drinks with caffeine or colourings are also dangerous.
Fish is not always a good idea
Many people believe that cats love fish, but not all fish is good for them. Fried, salted or pickled fish is a source of harmful substances. It can cause kidney problems or vitamin B1 deficiency.
In addition, fish often has small bones that can easily get stuck in the throat. If you want a treat, give some boiled fish without salt, spices or bones.
