25+ Toxic Foods for Cats: Complete Guide to Foods Cats Can't Eat
Disclaimer
Cats are known for being selective eaters, but their curiosity can sometimes lead them to sample foods that are harmful to them. While cats are less likely than dogs to eat unusual foods, it's still crucial for cat owners to know which common foods can be dangerous or toxic to their feline companions. This comprehensive guide covers over 25 foods that are toxic to cats, explaining why they're harmful, what symptoms to watch for, and what to do in case of accidental ingestion.
CRITICAL WARNING: Lilies and Cats
While not a food, it's essential to mention that all parts of lily plants (Lilium and Hemerocallis species) are extremely toxic to cats. Even minor exposure—such as pollen on fur or drinking water from a vase containing lilies—can cause rapid kidney failure and death.
If you suspect your cat has had any contact with lilies, seek emergency veterinary care immediately. This is one of the most dangerous and rapidly fatal toxins for cats.
Emergency Information
If Your Cat Has Consumed a Toxic Food:
- Contact your veterinarian immediately
- If unavailable, call an emergency animal hospital
- Call a pet poison helpline:
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
- Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
- Have information ready about what and how much your cat consumed, when it happened, and your cat's weight
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional
Complete List of Foods Toxic to Cats
Below is a comprehensive list of foods that are toxic or harmful to cats. The severity of toxicity can vary based on the amount consumed, your cat's size, and individual sensitivity.
1. ChocolateHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains theobromine and caffeine, which cats cannot metabolize effectively. Cats are even more sensitive than dogs to these compounds.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, panting, excessive urination, restlessness, racing heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian immediately.
2. Onions and GarlicVery High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. Cats are more sensitive than dogs to these compounds.
Symptoms to watch for:
Lethargy, weakness, reduced appetite, pale gums, elevated heart rate, collapse, reddish or brown urine
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian immediately. Effects may not be apparent for several days after consumption.
3. Raw EggsLow Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Risk of Salmonella or E. coli contamination. Raw egg whites contain avidin, which can interfere with biotin absorption over time.
Symptoms to watch for:
Potential for food poisoning (vomiting, diarrhea, fever)
What to do:
Monitor for symptoms and contact your veterinarian if they develop.
4. Raw FishModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Some raw fish contain thiaminase, an enzyme that destroys thiamine (vitamin B1). Prolonged consumption can lead to thiamine deficiency and neurological problems.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, thiamine deficiency (neurological symptoms)
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if symptoms develop.
5. AlcoholHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Causes intoxication similar to humans but much more severe due to smaller body size and different metabolism.
Symptoms to watch for:
Disorientation, staggering, behavioral changes, excitement or depression, increased urination, slowed breathing, seizures, cardiac arrest
What to do:
Seek immediate veterinary care.
6. CaffeineHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and some medications. Acts as a stimulant and can affect the heart, nervous system, and other organs.
Symptoms to watch for:
Restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, bleeding, seizures
What to do:
Seek immediate veterinary care.
7. Grapes and RaisinsPotentially High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
While less commonly consumed by cats than dogs, grapes and raisins may cause kidney failure in cats as well.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, decreased appetite, decreased urination, abdominal pain, kidney failure
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian immediately if consumed.
8. Dairy ProductsLow Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Many cats are lactose intolerant and cannot digest dairy products properly.
Symptoms to watch for:
Digestive upset, diarrhea, vomiting
What to do:
Monitor for symptoms and contact your veterinarian if they persist or worsen.
9. Dog FoodLow (long-term concern) Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Cat nutritional requirements differ from dogs. Cats need taurine (an amino acid) and other nutrients not present in sufficient quantities in dog food.
Symptoms to watch for:
Nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, poor coat condition, lethargy
What to do:
Occasional consumption is not an emergency, but cats should not be fed dog food regularly.
10. Liver (in large amounts)Moderate (with regular consumption) Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Liver contains high levels of vitamin A. While cats need vitamin A, excessive amounts can lead to vitamin A toxicity over time.
Symptoms to watch for:
Bone deformities, osteoporosis, vitamin A toxicity
What to do:
Occasional small amounts are fine, but contact your veterinarian if large amounts are consumed regularly.
11. Tuna (as a steady diet)Low (long-term concern) Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Tuna intended for human consumption doesn't provide complete nutrition for cats and can lead to nutritional deficiencies. May also contain mercury.
Symptoms to watch for:
Steatitis (yellow fat disease), vitamin E deficiency, mercury poisoning
What to do:
Occasional consumption is not an emergency, but tuna should not be a cat's primary food.
12. Raw DoughModerate to High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Yeast in the dough can expand in the warm, moist environment of the stomach, causing bloat. As it ferments, it produces alcohol which can lead to alcohol poisoning.
Symptoms to watch for:
Bloating, abdominal pain, vomiting, disorientation
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian immediately.
13. XylitolUnknown in cats, High in dogs Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
The effects of xylitol in cats are not well studied, but given its extreme toxicity in dogs, it should be avoided.
Symptoms to watch for:
While the effects in cats are not well documented, caution is advised based on its high toxicity in dogs
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian immediately if consumed.
14. MarijuanaModerate to High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
THC affects the nervous system and can cause serious neurological problems.
Symptoms to watch for:
Lethargy, dilated pupils, glassy eyes, uncoordinated movement, vomiting, urinary incontinence, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures or coma
What to do:
Seek veterinary care immediately. Be honest with your vet about what your pet consumed to ensure proper treatment.
15. Fat Trimmings and BonesModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Fat can cause pancreatitis, and bones can splinter and cause choking or internal punctures.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, pancreatitis
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if symptoms develop or if you suspect a bone is causing an obstruction.
16. Citrus FruitsLow to Moderate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
The stems, leaves, peels, fruit, and seeds of citrus plants contain varying amounts of citric acid and essential oils that can cause irritation.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea, depression, potential central nervous system depression
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if large amounts are consumed or if symptoms develop.
17. Coconut and Coconut OilLow Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Small amounts are usually not problematic, but the high fat content can cause digestive upset and potentially pancreatitis in some cats.
Symptoms to watch for:
Stomach upset, diarrhea
What to do:
Monitor for symptoms and contact your veterinarian if they develop or persist.
18. Salt and Salty FoodsModerate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Large amounts of salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning, causing cells to release water to balance sodium levels, leading to brain swelling.
Symptoms to watch for:
Excessive thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, elevated body temperature
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if large amounts are consumed or if symptoms develop.
19. Tomato PlantsLow to Moderate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
The green parts of the plant (stems, leaves, unripe fruit) contain solanine, which can be toxic in large amounts.
Symptoms to watch for:
Gastrointestinal upset, drowsiness, dilated pupils, slow heart rate, difficulty breathing, tremors
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if large amounts of green parts are consumed or if symptoms develop.
20. Moldy FoodsModerate to High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Some molds produce mycotoxins that can cause serious neurological symptoms.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, tremors, seizures, elevated body temperature
What to do:
Seek immediate veterinary care if tremors or seizures develop.
21. Raw PotatoesLow to Moderate Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Green or sprouting potatoes contain solanine, which can be toxic to cats.
Symptoms to watch for:
Gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, weakness, confusion
What to do:
Contact your veterinarian if large amounts are consumed or if symptoms develop.
22. AvocadoLow Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
While the persin content in avocados is less concerning for cats than for other animals, the high fat content can cause digestive upset.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, diarrhea
What to do:
Monitor for symptoms and contact your veterinarian if they develop or persist.
23. TobaccoHigh Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
Contains nicotine, which affects the digestive and nervous systems.
Symptoms to watch for:
Excitement followed by depression, salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, confusion, rapid breathing, abnormal heart rate, tremors, seizures
What to do:
Seek immediate veterinary care.
24. Lilies (not a food, but critical to mention)Extremely High Toxicity
Why it's toxic:
All parts of lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species) are extremely toxic to cats and can cause rapid kidney failure. Even small exposures (pollen on fur, water from vase) can be fatal.
Symptoms to watch for:
Vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, decreased urination, kidney failure
What to do:
This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary care. Prompt treatment within 18 hours of exposure is critical for survival.
Preventing Accidental Poisoning
Cats are generally more selective eaters than dogs, but they can still access harmful foods. Here are some important steps you can take to protect your cat:
- Store food securely: Keep potentially harmful foods in closed containers and in cabinets that your cat cannot access.
- Never leave food unattended: Cats can be stealthy and may jump on counters or tables when you're not looking.
- Be careful with trash: Use secure trash cans with lids that your cat cannot open.
- Educate family members and guests: Make sure everyone in your household and visitors know not to feed your cat human food without your permission.
- Keep plants away: If you have cut flowers or plants, ensure they are not toxic to cats (especially lilies) and keep them in areas your cat cannot access.
- Clean up spills immediately: Don't leave harmful foods or drinks unattended, even briefly.
- Have emergency contacts ready: Keep your vet's phone number, the nearest emergency vet clinic, and animal poison control numbers in an easily accessible place.
Safe Alternatives: Foods Cats CAN Eat
While cats are obligate carnivores and should primarily eat a balanced cat food diet, there are some human foods that can be offered as occasional treats:
- Cooked lean meats: Small amounts of plain cooked chicken, turkey, or beef (without seasonings, bones, or excess fat)
- Cooked fish: Occasional small amounts of cooked salmon, tuna, or other fish (without bones, skin, or seasonings)
- Eggs: Cooked eggs (scrambled or hard-boiled) without seasonings
- Some vegetables: Small amounts of cooked carrots, peas, or green beans
- Commercial cat treats: Specially formulated treats designed for cats are the safest option
Always introduce any new food gradually and in small amounts to monitor for any adverse reactions.
Conclusion
While this list of toxic foods for cats is extensive, it's not exhaustive. When in doubt about whether a food is safe for your cat, it's always best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving it to them. Remember that cats have specific nutritional requirements as obligate carnivores, and their primary diet should consist of high-quality cat food formulated to meet these needs.
If you suspect your cat has consumed something toxic, don't wait for symptoms to appear—contact your veterinarian immediately. Quick action can make a significant difference in the outcome.
By being aware of these dangerous foods and taking preventive measures, you can help ensure your feline companion stays safe and healthy for years to come.