We are often warned to not give our pets food off our table.
They often contain ingredients that are harmful to them.
But cats are carnivores.
Hence their main source of protein would include the ones that we eat.
Thus we bring to you a list of food that are safe for the cats to eat.
You will also find the health benefits associated with each of them and the way you should cook it.
1. Cooked Chicken
Health Benefits: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps maintain strong muscles and overall health in cats. It also contains essential amino acids that support their heart and immune system.
How to Serve: Serve plain, boiled, or baked chicken without seasoning, garlic, or onions. Avoid fried or heavily processed chicken, as it can contain unhealthy fats and additives.
2. Cooked Turkey
Health Benefits: Turkey is another lean protein that supports a cat’s muscle growth and energy levels. It’s also rich in B vitamins, which help with metabolism and digestion.
How to Serve: Remove the skin and bones before serving. Cooked, unseasoned turkey breast is best. Avoid deli turkey, as it contains excess salt and preservatives.
See Also:
3. Salmon (Cooked or Canned in Water)
Health Benefits: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a shiny coat, healthy skin, and joint support. It also provides high-quality protein.
How to Serve: Serve fully cooked or canned salmon in water (not oil or brine) and in small portions. Avoid raw salmon, as it may contain harmful bacteria and parasites.
4. Tuna (In Water, Not Oil)
Health Benefits: Tuna is rich in protein and omega-3s, which support brain function, heart health, and a glossy coat.
How to Serve: Offer small amounts of canned tuna in water as an occasional treat. Avoid flavored or salted tuna, and never rely on it as a primary food source due to its high mercury content.
5. Eggs (Cooked Only)
Health Benefits: Eggs provide a high-quality protein source along with vitamins like B12 and riboflavin, which aid in digestion and cell function.
How to Serve: Scrambled or boiled eggs are safe for cats, but avoid adding salt, butter, or seasoning. Never feed raw eggs, as they can carry salmonella or reduce biotin absorption.
6. Plain Yogurt
Health Benefits: Yogurt contains probiotics that can aid digestion and improve gut health, especially in cats with mild digestive issues.
How to Serve: Offer small amounts of plain, unsweetened yogurt without artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to cats.
7. Cheese (In Small Amounts)
Health Benefits: Cheese provides protein and calcium, which help with bone health and muscle maintenance.
How to Serve: Small pieces of hard cheese like cheddar or mozzarella can be given occasionally. However, many cats are lactose intolerant, so monitor for any signs of stomach upset.
8. Carrots (Cooked or Raw in Small Pieces)
Health Benefits: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function.
How to Serve: Cooked carrots are easier for cats to digest, but raw carrots can be given in small, finely chopped pieces. Avoid seasoning or butter.
9. Green Beans
Health Benefits: Green beans are a great low-calorie snack that provides fiber, aiding digestion and weight management.
How to Serve: Serve plain, cooked, or steamed green beans without salt, garlic, or sauces.
10. Pumpkin (Plain and Cooked)
Health Benefits: Pumpkin is high in fiber, which helps with digestion, hairball prevention, and relieving constipation or diarrhea.
How to Serve: Offer plain, canned pumpkin (not pie filling) or cooked fresh pumpkin in small spoonfuls.
11. Blueberries
Health Benefits: Blueberries contain antioxidants and vitamins that support immune health and brain function.
How to Serve: Offer a few fresh or frozen blueberries as a treat. Avoid blueberry-flavored products with added sugars.
12. Watermelon (Seedless and No Rind)
Health Benefits: Watermelon is hydrating and provides vitamins A and C, which support overall health.
How to Serve: Remove seeds and rind before serving small chunks. Watermelon should be an occasional treat due to its natural sugar content.
13. Apples (No Seeds or Core)
Health Benefits: Apples provide fiber and vitamin C, which can aid digestion and boost the immune system.
How to Serve: Serve thin apple slices or small chunks with the skin removed. Avoid seeds and core, as they contain cyanide.
14. Bananas
Health Benefits: Bananas offer potassium and fiber, which help with heart health and digestion.
How to Serve: Mash or slice into small pieces and offer as an occasional treat due to their high sugar content.
15. Oatmeal
Health Benefits: Oatmeal is a good source of fiber, which supports digestion, and B vitamins, which help with coat health.
How to Serve: Serve cooked, plain oatmeal in small amounts without sugar, milk, or flavoring.
16. Rice (Plain and Cooked)
Health Benefits: Rice is gentle on the stomach and can help cats with digestive issues, such as diarrhea.
How to Serve: Offer small portions of plain, cooked white or brown rice as a supplement, not a regular meal.
17. Spinach (In Small Amounts)
Health Benefits: Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function and overall health.
How to Serve: Offer small portions of steamed spinach. Avoid feeding it to cats with kidney disease, as it contains oxalates that can worsen their condition.
18. Peas
Health Benefits: Peas provide fiber, protein, and vitamins that help with digestion and muscle function.
How to Serve: Cooked or frozen peas can be added to cat food in small amounts. Avoid canned peas with added salt.
19. Plain Cooked Fish (Like Cod or Haddock)
Health Benefits: White fish is a great source of lean protein and omega-3s, which benefit the coat and joints.
How to Serve: Serve small amounts of baked or boiled fish without seasoning. Avoid raw fish due to potential parasites.
20. Peanut Butter (Rarely and in Small Amounts)
Health Benefits: Peanut butter contains protein and healthy fats, but it should only be given sparingly.
How to Serve: Offer a tiny lick of unsalted, xylitol-free peanut butter as a rare treat. Too much can be hard for cats to digest.
With this, you are now all set to bring home a cat.
These foods have high nutritional value and can be really beneficial for your felines.
Get, set, going!!
