10 Foods You Should Never Feed Your Cat (And What to Offer Instead)

Our beloved cats are naturally curious and often quite picky when it comes to food. However, not everything that looks appetizing to us humans is suitable for their diet. Many common foods we eat every day can be dangerous or even toxic to cats and may disrupt their digestive system, leading to discomfort and health issues. That’s why it’s crucial to know the 10 foods cats should never eat—and which ones can safely be part of a healthy, balanced feline diet.
 

What Is Harmful to Cats? The 10 Forbidden Foods

It’s quite common, and often done with love, to want to share a small bite of our food with our cat—especially when they’re giving us that irresistible look. But not everything that’s safe for us is safe for them. Some everyday foods can be dangerous, even in small amounts.

Here are the 10 foods cats should never eat:
 

1. Chocolate and cocoa: Chocolate is highly toxic to cats due to the presence of theobromine, a substance they can’t properly metabolize. Even small amounts can cause symptoms like vomiting, agitation, and tremors.
2. Grapes and raisins: These fruits are strictly off-limits as they can lead to severe health issues, including acute kidney failure.
3. Dairy products (milk and cheese): Despite the popular image of cats drinking milk, most adult cats are lactose intolerant. Milk, cream, or cheese can cause digestive issues like diarrhea and stomach pain.
4. Onions, garlic, and leeks: These contain thiosulfate, a compound that can damage red blood cells and lead to anemia. Even small, repeated doses can be harmful over time.
5. Raw fish, chicken bones, fishbones, canned tuna: Raw fish is among the most dangerous foods for cats as it may contain harmful bacteria and parasites. It also has an enzyme that destroys thiamine—essential for a cat’s nervous system. Bones and fishbones are choking hazards and can cause intestinal damage. Also, avoid giving your cat canned tuna meant for humans, as it’s not nutritionally balanced and can lead to deficiencies.
6. Raw eggs and raw potatoes: Raw eggs may contain harmful bacteria like salmonella, while raw potatoes are hard to digest and potentially toxic.
7. Caffeine and energy drinks: Like chocolate, caffeine is a powerful stimulant that can cause hyperactivity, tremors, and heart issues. Avoid coffee, tea, energy drinks, and anything containing caffeine.
8. Processed meats and salty snacks: Deli meats and salty foods like chips or processed snacks can harm your cat’s kidneys and increase blood pressure. They often contain spices and preservatives that are dangerous for cats.
9. Avocado and macadamia nuts: Avocados contain persin, a toxic compound for many animals, including cats. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even respiratory problems. Macadamia nuts are also toxic and may lead to muscle weakness and neurological symptoms.
10. Sweets, sugar, and alcoholic beverages: Cats lack receptors for sweet flavors and have no dietary need for sugar. Artificial sweeteners like xylitol are extremely toxic and can cause hypoglycemia and liver failure. Alcohol is also very dangerous, even in tiny amounts, and can result in vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures.

What Should Cats Eat? The Importance of a Balanced Diet

A proper diet isn’t just a matter of taste or routine—it’s one of the most impactful and daily ways we care for our cat. Choosing the right food means giving them what they truly need, avoiding guesswork or ingredients unsuitable for their species. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require a protein-rich diet from animal sources, balanced and complete, and free from harmful additives.

Their nutritional needs also change over time depending on age, activity level, lifestyle, and special conditions like neutering. A kitten, for instance, needs a diet rich in protein and essential nutrients for growth, while an adult neutered cat benefits from food that supports weight control and maintains lean muscle mass.
Meeting these needs in a smart and informed way means taking care of your cat’s health every day—starting with their food.
 

Oasy: A Tailored Response to Your Cat’s Nutritional Needs

The Oasy cat food range is a complete line of nutrition developed with respect for your cat’s nature. High-quality ingredients, carefully crafted recipes, and no unnecessary preservatives or additives—just what your cat truly needs to thrive. Our range includes:

• Dry food tailored to every life stage and condition, such as the Lifestage line or the Grain Free Formula line, made without grains and with a single animal protein source—ideal for more sensitive cats.
• Wet food, delicious and nutritious, prepared with care and selected natural ingredients. One example is the Oasy More Love line, made with up to 75% premium cuts of meat or fish.
• Cat treats, including filled biscuits and Creamy Snacks, designed to add joy to your cat’s routine—without compromising on quality.

Thanks to the thoughtful development and high standards behind every recipe, Oasy products represent a safe, complete, and satisfying choice. A daily treat that translates into health, vitality, and happiness for your cat.
Discover the full Oasy cat food range and explore our tips on how to make mealtime a happy moment.