Quick Answer

Use the guide below to check if specific foods are safe for your cats. Each food includes a safety rating, serving size, and health warnings.

Complete Cats Food Guide

What Can Cats Eat?

Cats are obligate carnivores with different dietary needs than dogs. Some foods safe for dogs are toxic to cats.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ
40+
Foods Covered
โœ…
10+
Safe Treats
โš ๏ธ
15+
Foods to Avoid
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888-426-4435
ASPCA Poison Control

โœ…Safe Foods for Cats

๐Ÿ—

Cooked Chicken

Plain, no bones, no skin

๐ŸŸ

Cooked Fish

Salmon, tuna in moderation

๐Ÿฅš

Cooked Eggs

Fully cooked, protein source

๐ŸŽƒ

Pumpkin

Plain, helps digestion

๐Ÿซ

Blueberries

Occasional treat, antioxidants

๐Ÿฅ•

Cooked Carrots

Soft, easy to eat

๐ŸšซTOXIC Foods - Never Feed

๐Ÿง…

Onions/Garlic/Chives

TOXIC

Damages red blood cells

๐Ÿซ

Chocolate

TOXIC

All types dangerous

๐Ÿ‡

Grapes/Raisins

TOXIC

Kidney failure risk

๐Ÿฅš

Raw Eggs

AVOID

Salmonella risk

โ˜•

Caffeine

TOXIC

Very dangerous

๐Ÿบ

Alcohol

TOXIC

Extremely dangerous

๐Ÿ•

Dog Food

AVOID

Lacks taurine cats need

๐ŸŒธ

Lilies

DEADLY

Extremely toxic plants

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Cats Diet Basics

Primary Diet

High-quality commercial cat food with taurine. Wet food helps hydration.

Protein

Cats are obligate carnivoresโ€”they MUST eat meat.

Water

Fresh water daily. Many cats prefer running water (fountains).

๐Ÿ†˜If Your Pet Eats Something Toxic

1. Stay Calm

Note what was eaten, how much, and when.

2. Call For Help

ASPCA Poison Control: 888-426-4435 or your vet.

3. Don't Wait

Time matters. Don't try home remedies first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cats eat dog food?โ–ผ
Noโ€”dog food lacks taurine, which cats require for heart and eye health. Can cause serious deficiencies.
Is tuna safe for cats?โ–ผ
In moderation. Too much can cause mercury poisoning. Tuna for humans has too much salt.
Can cats drink milk?โ–ผ
Most cats are lactose intolerant. Small amounts of cat milk treats are okay, but regular milk causes digestive upset.

Learn More About Cats

Explore our complete care guides, cost estimates, and breed information.

Explore More

Trusted sources: ASPCA Poison Control ยท AVMA Pet Care ยท Merck Vet Manual