What human foods can cats eat? It’s a question many of us ask when we catch our cat eyeing up our roast dinner or hovering near a biscuit. Those hopeful eyes are hard to resist but not everything on our plate is safe for them. In this guide, we’ll walk through what’s fine to share, what’s best in moderation, and which foods are strictly off the menu.
We’re aiming this at cat owners who want to keep their pets happy and healthy without falling for old myths (no, milk isn’t a treat – sorry, cartoons you’ve got it wrong!).
What Human Foods Can Cats Eat Safely?
Cats are obligate carnivores – which is a fancy way of saying meat is their main deal. Their bodies are designed to get nutrients from animal protein, not carbohydrates or sugary snacks. But that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy a little variety now and then.
✅ Safe (in small quantities and as occasional treats)
These foods are generally fine in moderation, assuming your cat doesn’t have allergies or sensitivities:
- Cooked Chicken or Turkey – Plain, boneless, skinless, and fully cooked. A little diced chicken is often a hit and can be useful for tempting picky eaters.
- Cooked Fish (e.g., tuna or salmon) – Opt for tuna in spring water rather than oil or brine.
- Scrambled Eggs – Rich in protein and safe if fully cooked (no milk or butter added though). A soft, fluffy portion is usually well received.
- Steamed Vegetables – Cats may surprise you. Some enjoy mashed peas, steamed courgettes or soft carrots, others will look at you as though you are some sort of idiot! Great for adding fibre.
- Pumpkin (plain, cooked) – Excellent for digestion, especially if your cat is a bit bunged up. Just a spoonful, not half a pie!
- Cucumber – Hydrating and low in calories. If your cat’s not startled by it (we’ve all seen the videos…), it can be a crunchy treat.
Foods Cats Can Eat – But Only Sometimes
These aren’t toxic, but they’re not ideal either. Think of them as the cat equivalent of crisps or ice cream – fine on rare occasions but not part of the weekly shop.
- Cheese – Some cats love it, but many are lactose intolerant. A tiny nibble of cheddar won’t do harm, but don’t go overboard.
- Milk – Despite what we were all told growing up, most adult cats can’t digest lactose. A saucer of milk could lead to a rather smelly litter tray.
- Ham or Deli Meats – High in salt and preservatives. A postage-stamp sized piece once in a blue moon is okay, but skip the processed stuff where you can. We don’t don’t recommend.
- Bread – Not harmful in tiny amounts, but it doesn’t offer anything useful nutrition-wise. Cats don’t need carbs like we do.
⚠️ Foods to Avoid Completely
These are the definite no-gos. Some are toxic, others are dangerous in other ways. If in doubt leave it out.
- Chocolate – Contains theobromine and caffeine, both toxic to cats. Even a small amount can cause vomiting, seizures or worse.
- Onions, Garlic, Chives – These all belong to the allium family and can damage red blood cells, leading to serious illness.
- Grapes and Raisins – These can cause sudden kidney failure. Even one grape can be dangerous – keep them well out of reach.
- Alcohol – Absolutely not. Even a teaspoon can be life-threatening. That includes foods made with alcohol.
- Caffeine – Found in tea, coffee, energy drinks and some sweets – all off-limits.
- Cooked Bones – They can splinter and cause choking or internal damage. Always go boneless.
- Raw Dough or Yeast – It continues to rise in the stomach and produces alcohol. A dangerous combo for any cat.
What About Raw Meat or Fish?
Some owners swear by raw diets, but raw meat or fish carries a risk of parasites and bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. While cats in the wild might take the risk, it’s not something we’d recommend without a proper diet plan and vet support. Cooked is always safer.
What If My Cat Eats Something They Shouldn’t?
Cats are notoriously nosy, and accidents can happen. If you catch your cat nibbling on something you’re unsure about, or if they show any unusual symptoms (vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite), don’t wait it out contact your vet. It’s always better to be cautious.
Final Furballs Thoughts
It’s tempting to treat our pets the way we treat ourselves a little taste of something nice here and there. But cats have very specific dietary needs, and what’s harmless to us can be risky for them.
The occasional bit of cooked chicken or cucumber slice is perfectly fine, but a balanced cat food diet should always be the mainstay. It’s formulated to give them everything they need, without the guesswork.
And remember your cat doesn’t know what’s safe. That sausage roll they’re trying to steal isn’t a treat – it’s a tummy ache waiting to happen.
Quick Reference List
Safe Treats (in moderation):
- Cooked chicken or turkey
- Tuna in spring water
- Scrambled egg
- Steamed vegetables
- Plain cooked pumpkin
- Cucumber
Give Sparingly:
- Cheese
- Milk
- Bread
- Deli meats
Never Feed:
- Chocolate
- Grapes or raisins
- Onions, garlic, or chives
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Cooked bones
- Raw dough
At Furballs Cattery, we understand just how much your cat means to you – and that includes helping you make informed choices about their wellbeing. If you’re looking for trusted, professional care while you’re away, our 5-star licensed Hampshire cattery offers a safe, peaceful, and homely environment tailored to every feline guest. Find out more about our facilities and how we care for your cat.
This guide is for general information only and does not replace veterinary advice. If in doubt, always check with your vet.
