Safe Human Foods for Cats and Dogs:
What’s Okay and What’s Not
Our pets often beg for a taste of what we’re eating, whether it’s our cat gently pawing at us or our dog giving us those irresistible sad eyes. While it’s tempting to share, it’s essential to know which human foods are safe for our pets and which ones can be harmful. Both cats and dogs have different nutritional needs, and what’s safe for one may not be safe for the other.
Foods to Avoid for Both Cats and Dogs
Certain human foods can be dangerous or even deadly for both cats and dogs. Here are some key foods to avoid:
- Chocolate: Toxic for both cats and dogs.
- Onions and Garlic: Harmful whether raw or cooked.
- Caffeine and Alcohol: Both are dangerous for pets.
- Xylitol: A sweetener found in sugar-free products, toxic to pets.
- Grapes and Raisins: Harmful to both species.
- Dairy: Many adult pets are lactose intolerant, making dairy products like milk and cheese unsuitable.
For dogs, additional harmful foods include macadamia nuts, fatty or fried foods, and avocados. Cats should avoid most nuts and raw meats, as well as large quantities of processed or salty foods.
Safe Foods for Dogs
Dogs can safely enjoy certain human foods, but only in moderation and under the right conditions. These include:
- Fruits: Apples, bananas, blueberries, watermelon, pineapple, and raspberries.
- Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, sweet potatoes, zucchini, carrots, peas, and cooked potatoes and pumpkin.
- Cooked Meats: Beef, chicken, turkey, and salmon.
- Grains: Cooked rice, pasta, or oatmeal.
- Dairy: Plain yogurt, cottage cheese, and cooked eggs (watch out for lactose intolerance).
Make sure human food makes up less than 10% of your dog’s daily calories to avoid unhealthy weight gain, and always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods.
Safe Foods for Cats
While cats are strict carnivores, they can occasionally enjoy small amounts of certain human foods:
- Cooked Meat: Lean beef, chicken, turkey, and fish (always cooked, never raw).
- Eggs: Scrambled or boiled, eggs are a safe, protein-rich treat for cats.
- Cooked Vegetables: Cats can safely eat small amounts of vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and peas, though these are not part of their natural diet.
Remember to avoid sauces or seasonings on meats or vegetables, as they may contain ingredients harmful to cats.
Cooking for Your Pets
If you want to cook for your pets, it’s important to ensure their meals are nutritionally balanced. Both cats and dogs need a diet rich in protein, with appropriate levels of fat and carbohydrates. Websites like Balance It offer custom recipes developed by veterinary nutritionists to ensure your homemade pet meals are safe and healthy.
When in Doubt, Consult Your Vet
While it can be fun to share a snack with your pets, the best way to ensure they’re getting the right nutrition is by feeding them high-quality commercial pet food. These foods are specifically formulated to meet the dietary needs of your pet, whether they are a cat or a dog. If you’re unsure about introducing a new food or switching to homemade meals, consult your veterinarian for advice.
Sharing food with your pets can be a rewarding bonding experience, but their health and safety should always come first. By sticking to safe, pet-friendly options and avoiding harmful foods, you can keep your furry friends happy and healthy for years to come.