We know you love your fur balls. We love them too! And since there is so much love going around right now, we thought it would be a good idea to share with you this list of 7 seemingly safe snacks that you should avoid giving your feline friends at all costs. That is if you intend to keep them alive and well…

 

  1. Chocolate

 

 

Do you remember that Oreo ad “Chocolate isn’t good for dogs, but you can have the rest of my milk”….Well, unfortunately, the same applies to your pampered puss. Chocolate contains methylxanthines which causes vomiting, diarrhoea, high body temperature, muscle tremors, abnormal heart rhythm, increased thirst and seizures. If any of this happens, it probably goes without saying that you should go to the nearest the vet immediately!

 

Remember darker chocolate is more dangerous than milk or white chocolate. Our advice though, steer clear no matter the colour.

 

  1. Onions

 

Red onions and beets stacked in a basket at the farmer's market

 

Not that your cat would want to nibble on an onion, but if they do, beware of the consequences. Onions can cause damage to your cat’s red blood cells which can lead to anaemia, appetite loss, general weakness and pale gums.

 

  1. Grapes and Raisins

 

 

Abdominal pain! Weak urination! Diarrhoea! Grapes are great for wine, terrible for cats. Fact.

 

  1. Milk & milk products

 

 

Does your cat meow non-stop for a bowl of milk? Does she lick your ice cream bowl clean or finish your tub of yoghurt?

 

Did you know?

 

Cats are lactose intolerant and can’t digest dairy products when they grow up. Dairy products can cause serious gastrointestinal pain. Mind. Blown.

 

  1. Canned Fish

 

Fresh fish for sale at Pike Place Market

 

Fish is an excellent source of protein for cats, but canned fish is intended for human consumption. Believe it or not, the solution in which it is stored is just too high in sodium and fat. Rather stick to wet cat food designed specifically for your fish-mongering feline.

 

  1. Raw Eggs, Raw Meat

 

 

Your cat most likely won’t enjoy raw eggs, but raw meat however might be one of their guilty pleasures. Raw eggs and raw meat can however lead to salmonella poisoning. Symptoms of the illness include vomiting, lethargy and diarrhoea of course. Raw eggs also contain an enzyme that can lead to skin problems.

 

  1. Xylitol

 

A plate with cupcakes topped with cream and candy

 

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in sweet treats, gum, and even some tubes of toothpaste. It can cause seizures in cats soon after ingestion, and liver failure a day or so after. Next time you feel the need to share your sweets or gum with your fur ball, think again.

Accidents can happen, and dangerous foods are all around! If your little buddy is not super street smart, it might be worth protecting yourself against the shock of another vet bill by buying our flexible Pet Insurance cover (if you haven’t already done so). Quote and buy online now for the peace of mind you deserve.