Cats are curious animals, and will experiment with food, just like humans do. Unfortunately, unlike humans, cats can’t tell what foods are good for them, and which are harmful to their health and well-being.
The best advice is to have your cat stick to eating primarily cat food, which is specifically made to keep them healthy and promote a good digestive system. However, if you’re in the mood to give your cat a snack that’s different from the usual packaged cat treats, you can add certain human foods to their normal diet.
You heard right! There are some human foods that are safe for your feline friend, just as long as you know how to feed it to them.
Here are seven human foods that you can feed your cat safely:
1. Meat that is Cooked
“House cats are like their big-cat counterparts: lions, tigers, and cheetahs,” says Bradley Gerhart, a pet writer at Writinity and Last minute writing. “Since cats are obligate carnivores, they’re going to need meat in their diet, because meat has protein that will keep them heart-healthy, have good sight, and help with reproductivity.”
Now, it’s important to know that when you feed your cat cooked meat, keep in mind the following:
- The meat must not have any spices.
- The meat must be fully cooked.
- The meat must be boneless.
- Cut up the meat before serving.
2. Cooked Fish and Fish Oils
Did you know that fish-based products like salmon are found in commercial cat foods? Fish contains the omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the eyes, and also packed with other health benefits.
However, when feeding your cat fish, the fish should be cooked, not raw, or else your pet could get sick. And don’t have them eat straight from the can, or they’ll cut their tongue.
Fish oil isn’t just a popular supplement for humans, but also for cats. The oils help your cat’s coat stay healthy during cold weather, and can be a good treat for them all year round.
3. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is also good for cats, since it’s an ingredient often found in commercial cat foods. However, keep in mind that oatmeal is an acquired taste for cats.
It can be a good supplement to their regular diet, but don’t forget the meat!
4. Eggs (cooked well)
Packed with protein and vitamin B, cooked eggs can be beneficial for cats. However, if your cat is allergic to eggs, then avoid feeding it to them.
To make sure that they’re okay with eggs, only feed them a tiny bit to check for any allergic reaction.
Also, do the following:
- Cook the eggs before serving.
- Leave no traces of shell in the egg.
5. Fresh Produce
Veggies – Vegetables are packed with fiber and vitamins, which help with digestion, and health in general. Although some cats may not like veggies, don’t ever force them to eat it; and don’t ever let them eat house plants, which can be toxic to them.
Also, be sure to wash your veggies thoroughly, and cook them before serving. Your best options are steamed asparagus or broccoli, baked carrots, winter squash, green beans, or chopped greens.
Fruit – Cats can also be good with fruit. One example are bananas.
A slice of banana is a good serving size for cats. However, serving them the whole banana will upset their stomach. So, stick to it being a snack instead. Apples are also a good choice for cats. Just make sure you remove the skin, and serve it in slices.
6. Whole Grains And Breads
“Whole grains help your cat get enough vitamin B, the same benefit as humans,” says Emma Clayton, a nutrition blogger at Draft beyond and Research papers UK. “Serving as an energy boost, whole grains are also already found in most cat foods. And, they’re also a good source of iron and fiber.”
Another good source for whole grains – and it’s safe for cat consumption – is bread. Strangely enough, bread is a good source of fiber and protein for cats. However, the bread has to be whole grain – no white bread; and, bread should be used as a supplemental treat, not replace meals.
7. Cheese
Cheese is a dairy product, meaning that they’re one of the most controversial human foods for cats, since many cats can be lactose intolerant, and won’t be able to process dairy correctly.
However, if your cat is okay with dairy products, cheese is a good choice of snack for them. But just like eggs, make sure that they’re able to handle a tiny piece of cheese, to avoid making them sick from too big a serving.
Conclusion
As you read through this list of the seven foods that are good for cats, you can let your pet enjoy them in small servings. Remember: Many of these foods have to be properly prepared and or cooked, in order to better serve your cat; and, keep in mind that cats can be picky eaters, so don’t be discouraged if they reject certain foods at first.
In the end, not only will be taking good care of your cat, but you’ll share an unlikely bond with them over food.
Author Bio
This guest post was contributed by Ashley Halsey ~ a writer for Assignment help London. She is also an editor for Gumessays.com. As a professional writer, she has contributed to many major writing projects throughout the country. In her spare time, she likes to travel, read, and spend time with her two children.
Great information! Our cat Nala loves cooked eggs. We think a diet that has variety is great for cats too!
This is good information, I was reading about what vets feed their own cats so, this is a good read!
You always want to feed your bestie the best food you can!
https://petguidance.co.uk/what-do-vets-feed-their-own-cats