[{"slug":"chicken","name":"Chicken","aliases":["cooked chicken","chicken breast","chicken meat"],"category":"meat","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea if overfed or given fatty, seasoned, or breaded chicken","Nutritional deficiencies if chicken is fed as a large share of the diet long-term","Choking or internal injury if bones are swallowed; bacterial illness (Salmonella, Campylobacter) from raw or undercooked chicken"],"action":"Stop feeding chicken and monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy over the next 24 hours. Contact a veterinarian promptly if a bone was swallowed, the chicken was raw, or symptoms are severe or persist. Never feed chicken cooked with onion, garlic, or other seasoning.","safePortion":"A few small, bite-sized pieces of thoroughly cooked, plain chicken (skin and bones removed, no seasoning) as an occasional treat or food topper — keep chicken and other treats under about 10% of daily calories.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Chicken?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-chicken","quote":"Chicken shouldn't make up more than 10% of the calories your kitty eats per day. Overfeeding or exclusively feeding chicken to your cat can cause nutritional deficiencies.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Cornell Feline Health Center — Feeding Your Cat","url":"https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feeding-your-cat","quote":"Not to let treats exceed 10 to 15 percent of a cat's daily caloric intake.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"turkey","name":"Turkey","aliases":["cooked turkey","turkey breast"],"category":"meat","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea from fatty turkey skin or rich table scraps","Pancreatitis risk if given turkey skin or drippings","Choking or internal injury if bones are swallowed"],"action":"Stop giving turkey, remove access to skin, bones, and leftovers, and monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. Seek veterinary care promptly if bones were eaten or if there is persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, or lethargy suggesting pancreatitis.","safePortion":"A small cube of plain, cooked, skinless, boneless turkey breast (about the size of a thumb tip) as an occasional treat — not the skin, bones, deli meat, or seasoned/salted turkey.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Turkey?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-turkey","quote":"Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake, with the rest coming from a nutritionally balanced cat food.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"VCA Animal Hospitals — 4 Tips to Avoid Common Pet Hazards this Thanksgiving","url":"https://vcahospitals.com/press-center/vca-news/4-tips-to-avoid-common-pet-hazards-this-thanksgiving","quote":"Avoid feeding pets turkey skin, which can trigger pancreatitis, or bones, which could splinter and lead to choking or internal injuries, and pack away any leftovers quickly to keep curious pets at bay.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"salmon","name":"Salmon","aliases":["cooked salmon"],"category":"meat","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy if overfed","Scratching, skin irritation, or overgrooming if allergic to the fish protein","Choking or GI obstruction from swallowed bones; bacterial or parasite illness from raw or smoked salmon"],"action":"Stop feeding salmon and monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or skin irritation; contact a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline if symptoms are severe or persist. Never feed raw, smoked, or canned salmon meant for humans.","safePortion":"A small pinch or two of thoroughly cooked, plain, boneless salmon mixed into food as an occasional treat.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Salmon?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-salmon","quote":"Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat's daily calories. The other 90% should come from their well-balanced cat food.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"VCA Animal Hospitals — Salmon Poisoning","url":"https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/salmon-poisoning","quote":"Cats do not appear to develop salmon poisoning.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"shrimp","name":"Shrimp","aliases":["cooked shrimp"],"category":"meat","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort if overfed","Choking or intestinal blockage from swallowed shells or tails"],"action":"Stop feeding shrimp and watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or discomfort over the next day; call a veterinarian if signs are severe or a shell/tail may have been swallowed. Always cook shrimp fully and remove the shell and tail before offering.","safePortion":"Half a shrimp for a small cat, up to one whole shrimp for a large cat, once or twice a week — fully cooked, shell and tail removed, no seasoning.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Shrimp?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-shrimp","quote":"Shrimp is nontoxic and, as long as it's properly prepared, safe to offer your kitty in small amounts.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"VCA Animal Hospitals — Avoiding Raw Food in Cats","url":"https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/avoiding-raw-food-in-cats","quote":"Nearly 25% of the raw food samples tested positive for harmful bacteria, including Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"eggs","name":"Eggs","aliases":["cooked eggs","scrambled eggs","egg whites"],"category":"meat","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea if overfed","Salmonella or E. coli illness (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, fever) if given raw or undercooked egg","Weight gain from the yolk's fat and cholesterol content if fed regularly"],"action":"Stop feeding eggs and monitor for vomiting or diarrhea. If raw egg was eaten, watch for signs of bacterial illness (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, fever) and contact a veterinarian if they appear. Always cook eggs fully with no salt, butter, or seasoning.","safePortion":"About a tablespoon of cooked, plain egg white (or a teaspoon or two of whole cooked egg) added to food occasionally.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Eggs?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-eggs","quote":"Ingesting raw eggs or raw egg whites increases the risk of getting infected with a bacteria called salmonella.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"VCA Animal Hospitals — Avoiding Raw Food in Cats","url":"https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/avoiding-raw-food-in-cats","quote":"Nearly 25% of the raw food samples tested positive for harmful bacteria, including Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"pumpkin","name":"Pumpkin","aliases":["canned pumpkin","pumpkin puree"],"category":"vegetable","verdict":"safe","signs":["Diarrhea if overfed (too much fiber at once)","Choking or intestinal obstruction if seeds are swallowed whole or in large amounts"],"action":"Reduce or stop the pumpkin and monitor stool; mild diarrhea from overfeeding usually resolves within a day or two. Contact a veterinarian if diarrhea persists, or if a cat has eaten pumpkin pie filling (which contains spices that can be harmful) or a large amount of seeds.","safePortion":"A teaspoon or two of plain, 100% canned pumpkin (not pie filling) mixed into food occasionally — never spiced or sweetened pumpkin.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Pumpkin?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-pumpkin","quote":"Plain 100% pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is safe for cats and can even be useful as a treatment for gastrointestinal issues.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Friendly Fall Foods","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-owner-blog/friendly-fall-foods/","quote":"Pumpkin is a good source of vitamins (particularly vitamin A), minerals, electrolytes, and fiber, and is also low in calories.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"carrots","name":"Carrots","aliases":["cooked carrots","raw carrot","carrot"],"category":"vegetable","verdict":"safe","signs":["Choking or digestive upset from raw, unchopped pieces","Mild GI upset (gas, soft stool) if overfed"],"action":"Stop feeding carrots and monitor for choking, vomiting, or soft stool; seek emergency veterinary care if a cat appears to be choking or has swallowed a large chunk. Otherwise, mild GI upset usually resolves on its own within a day.","safePortion":"A few small, cooked and cut (or finely grated) pieces of plain carrot as an occasional treat — cats can't use carrots' beta-carotene as a vitamin A source, so treat it as a low-calorie snack, not a nutrient supplement.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Do Carrots Really Improve Vision for You, Your Cat?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/evr_ct_can_carrots_improve_cat_eyesight","quote":"Giving your cat a few bits of carrot now and again isn't going to come close to providing an overdose.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — Good/Bad Food Pet Magnet","url":"https://www.aspcapro.org/sites/default/files/apcc-food-magnet.pdf","quote":"These foods are safe to share sparingly with pets in small portions when unseasoned and cut into small pieces. Remove seeds, cores, stems or peels!","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"broccoli","name":"Broccoli","aliases":["cooked broccoli","steamed broccoli"],"category":"vegetable","verdict":"safe","signs":["Gas, abdominal discomfort, or GI upset if overfed","Choking or GI obstruction from large, unchopped pieces"],"action":"Stop feeding broccoli and monitor for GI upset; contact a veterinarian if choking or repeated vomiting occurs. Only offer small, cooked, chopped, unseasoned pieces.","safePortion":"A pinky-nail to thumb-sized piece of plain, cooked, chopped broccoli once or twice a week.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Broccoli?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-broccoli","quote":"Large pieces of broccoli for cats can could also result in a choking hazard or gastrointestinal obstruction.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — Good/Bad Food Pet Magnet","url":"https://www.aspcapro.org/sites/default/files/apcc-food-magnet.pdf","quote":"These foods are safe to share sparingly with pets in small portions when unseasoned and cut into small pieces. Remove seeds, cores, stems or peels!","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"corn","name":"Corn","aliases":["corn kernels","sweetcorn"],"category":"vegetable","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation if overfed","Choking or intestinal blockage from the cob or husk","Weight gain or blood sugar issues with regular, larger amounts"],"action":"Stop feeding corn and monitor for digestive upset; seek veterinary care promptly if a cat has swallowed a corn cob or husk, since this is a common cause of intestinal obstruction requiring surgery.","safePortion":"Less than a tablespoon of plain, cooked corn kernels a week — never the cob or husk.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Corn?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-corn","quote":"Corn isn't considered toxic to cats, so they can have some. But it really isn't good for them.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — Healthy, Safe Snacks to Help Your Pet Slim Down","url":"https://www.aspca.org/news/healthy-safe-snacks-help-your-pet-slim-down","quote":"If you're a cat person, you can also try peas, frozen corn, broccoli florets, and of course, cat nip!","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"celery","name":"Celery","aliases":["celery sticks","chopped celery"],"category":"vegetable","verdict":"safe","signs":["Choking on stringy fibers or large pieces","Mild stomach upset or diarrhea if overfed"],"action":"Stop feeding celery and monitor for choking or GI upset; contact a veterinarian if choking, repeated vomiting, or diarrhea occurs. Always chop celery finely and serve it plain.","safePortion":"A few small, finely chopped pieces of plain celery as an occasional treat.","sources":[{"label":"VCA Animal Hospitals — Feeding a Cat Who Is a Glutton","url":"https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/feline-gluttons","quote":"Fruits and vegetables are high in moisture and fiber, which makes them low in calories. Giving your cat safe fruits and veggies as snacks can allow you to give them more food without greatly increasing their calorie intake.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Celery (Cats)","url":"https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/celery","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"rice","name":"Rice","aliases":["white rice","cooked rice","plain rice","brown rice"],"category":"other","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or bloating if overfed","Weight gain or nutrient imbalance if used regularly in place of a balanced diet"],"action":"Stop feeding rice and monitor for digestive upset; if vomiting or diarrhea persists beyond a day, or the cat has diabetes or another health condition, contact a veterinarian before continuing to feed rice.","safePortion":"Less than a tablespoon of plain, well-cooked white or brown rice per week, mixed with a balanced meal — not a regular dietary staple or a substitute for veterinary-recommended food.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Rice?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-rice","quote":"While rice isn't toxic to cats, it isn't good for them, either... cats are obligate carnivores and need to get the bulk of their nutrition from meat.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"VCA Animal Hospitals — Bland Diet Instructions for Dogs and Cats","url":"https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/bland-diet-instructions-for-dogs-and-cats","quote":"Cooked chicken breast and white rice is deficient in more than 10 essential nutrients for dogs and cats.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"bread","name":"Bread","aliases":["plain bread","white bread","toast"],"category":"other","verdict":"safe","signs":["Digestive upset or weight gain if given regularly (empty carbohydrate calories)","Severe bloating, gas, and possible alcohol toxicity if raw, unbaked yeast dough is eaten — this is a medical emergency, unlike baked bread"],"action":"For baked bread, stop feeding it and watch for mild digestive upset. If a cat has eaten raw, unbaked yeast dough, treat it as an emergency and contact a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately — rising dough can cause dangerous stomach bloating/twisting and alcohol toxicity.","safePortion":"A thumbnail-sized piece of plain, fully baked white or wheat bread once or twice a week at most — never raw dough, and never bread containing raisins, xylitol, garlic, or onion.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Bread?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-bread","quote":"Uncooked bread dough is perhaps the most dangerous form of bread for cats.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets","url":"https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets","quote":"Yeast dough can rise and cause gas to accumulate in your pet's digestive system. This can be painful and cause the stomach to bloat, and potentially twist, becoming a life-threatening emergency.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"bananas","name":"Bananas","aliases":["banana"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea if overfed","Blood sugar spikes in diabetic or overweight cats from the natural sugar content"],"action":"Stop feeding banana and monitor for digestive upset; contact a veterinarian if a diabetic or overweight cat has eaten a large amount, or if vomiting/diarrhea persists.","safePortion":"A roughly 1-inch square piece of peeled banana every few weeks — never the peel.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Bananas?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-bananas","quote":"A practical guideline is to offer no more than a 1-inch square piece of banana every few weeks.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — Good/Bad Food Pet Magnet","url":"https://www.aspcapro.org/sites/default/files/apcc-food-magnet.pdf","quote":"These foods are safe to share sparingly with pets in small portions when unseasoned and cut into small pieces. Remove seeds, cores, stems or peels!","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"blueberries","name":"Blueberries","aliases":["blueberry"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea if overfed","Blood sugar issues in diabetic cats, or problems for cats with IBD/pancreatitis, from the sugar content"],"action":"Stop feeding blueberries and monitor for digestive upset; contact a veterinarian if a cat with diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, or pancreatitis has eaten more than a small amount, or if symptoms persist.","safePortion":"Up to about three fresh or frozen blueberries at a time, a few times a week — washed, and mashed or cut for smaller cats to reduce choking risk.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Blueberries?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-blueberries","quote":"To be safe, only feed your cat up to three blueberries at once, no more than a few times a week.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — Good/Bad Food Pet Magnet","url":"https://www.aspcapro.org/sites/default/files/apcc-food-magnet.pdf","quote":"These foods are safe to share sparingly with pets in small portions when unseasoned and cut into small pieces. Remove seeds, cores, stems or peels!","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"strawberries","name":"Strawberries","aliases":["strawberry"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea if overfed","Blood sugar issues in diabetic or overweight cats from the sugar content"],"action":"Stop feeding strawberries and monitor for digestive upset; contact a veterinarian if a diabetic or overweight cat ate a large amount, or if symptoms persist.","safePortion":"One small strawberry (cut into pieces, stem and leaves removed) or less, a couple of times a week at most.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Strawberries?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-strawberries","quote":"Cats are obligate carnivores, so their bodies are built to thrive on animal-based proteins, not fruit.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — Good/Bad Food Pet Magnet","url":"https://www.aspcapro.org/sites/default/files/apcc-food-magnet.pdf","quote":"These foods are safe to share sparingly with pets in small portions when unseasoned and cut into small pieces. Remove seeds, cores, stems or peels!","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"watermelon","name":"Watermelon","aliases":["watermelon flesh"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea if overfed","Choking or GI obstruction from swallowed seeds or rind"],"action":"Stop feeding watermelon and monitor for digestive upset; seek veterinary care if a cat swallowed a large piece of rind (obstruction risk) or if vomiting/diarrhea persists.","safePortion":"A small piece of seedless flesh, occasionally — always remove seeds and rind first.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Watermelon?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-watermelon","quote":"Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their digestive systems are designed to process animal-based proteins rather than fruits, vegetables, or carbohydrate-rich foods.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"VCA Animal Hospitals — Feeding a Cat Who Is a Glutton","url":"https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/feline-gluttons","quote":"Fruits and vegetables are high in moisture and fiber, which makes them low in calories. Giving your cat safe fruits and veggies as snacks can allow you to give them more food without greatly increasing their calorie intake.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"apples","name":"Apples","aliases":["apple","apple slices"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"safe","signs":["Mild stomach upset or diarrhea if the flesh is overfed","Cyanide-compound exposure if seeds, stem, or leaves are chewed and swallowed in quantity — vomiting, drooling, or difficulty breathing are warning signs of toxicity and need urgent care"],"action":"For flesh only, mild overfeeding usually just causes stomach upset — stop feeding and monitor. If a cat has chewed or swallowed apple seeds, stems, or leaves, contact a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline promptly, since these parts contain cyanide-forming compounds; always core, seed, and peel apples before offering.","safePortion":"A few small, peeled, cored, seedless pieces, offered occasionally.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Apples?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-apples","quote":"An apple's stems, leaves, and seeds also contain cyanide, which in large amounts could be toxic to cats.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — Good/Bad Food Pet Magnet","url":"https://www.aspcapro.org/sites/default/files/apcc-food-magnet.pdf","quote":"These foods are safe to share sparingly with pets in small portions when unseasoned and cut into small pieces. Remove seeds, cores, stems or peels!","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"peaches","name":"Peaches","aliases":["peach","peach flesh"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"safe","signs":["Mild stomach upset if the flesh is overfed","Cyanide poisoning risk, choking, or intestinal blockage if the pit is chewed or swallowed — vomiting, drooling, gasping, or collapse are emergency warning signs"],"action":"For flesh only, stop feeding and monitor for mild digestive upset. If a cat has chewed or swallowed a peach pit (or eaten leaves/stems), treat it as an emergency — contact Pet Poison Helpline or a veterinarian immediately, since the pit's kernel contains cyanide-forming compounds and the pit itself can also cause choking or a GI obstruction.","safePortion":"A couple of small, peeled, pitted pieces of ripe peach flesh occasionally — never the pit, leaves, or stems.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — What Fruits Can Cats Eat?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/which-fruits-can-cats-eat","quote":"Peaches are rich in vitamins A and C and contain fiber, which can help with digestion.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Peach Pits","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/peach-pits/","quote":"Seeds within peach pits have small amounts of cyanide-containing compounds and enzymes.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"pineapple","name":"Pineapple","aliases":["fresh pineapple"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"safe","signs":["Vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach upset if overfed (sugar and acidity)","Intestinal blockage risk from swallowed skin, core, or leaves"],"action":"Stop feeding pineapple and monitor for digestive upset; contact a veterinarian if a cat swallowed the tough skin, core, or leaves, or if vomiting/diarrhea persists.","safePortion":"A couple of small, bite-sized pieces of fresh, peeled pineapple occasionally — never canned pineapple in syrup, dried pineapple, or the skin/leaves.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — What Fruits Can Cats Eat?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/which-fruits-can-cats-eat","quote":"Small pieces of fresh pineapple are safe for cats.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"VCA Animal Hospitals — Feeding a Cat Who Is a Glutton","url":"https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/feline-gluttons","quote":"Fruits and vegetables are high in moisture and fiber, which makes them low in calories. Giving your cat safe fruits and veggies as snacks can allow you to give them more food without greatly increasing their calorie intake.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"tuna","name":"Tuna","aliases":["canned tuna","tuna fish","tuna flakes"],"category":"meat","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Thiaminase — an enzyme present in raw fish that destroys vitamin B1 (thiamine) if fed regularly and not destroyed by cooking. Large predatory tuna species (e.g. yellowfin, ahi) also accumulate mercury over time.","doseNote":"The risk comes from repeated, frequent feeding (a fish-heavy diet), not from a single serving — tuna should be an occasional treat, not a dietary staple.","onset":"Thiamine deficiency develops gradually over a sustained fish-heavy diet: appetite loss and lethargy appear first, with neurological signs following if uncorrected.","signs":["Loss of appetite, lethargy, or vomiting (early thiamine deficiency)","Loss of balance, head tremors, or seizures (advanced thiamine deficiency from a sustained raw-fish diet)","No expected signs from an occasional treat — problems arise from tuna as a dietary staple, not a one-off feeding"],"action":"Offer only canned tuna packed in water (no oil or seasoning) as an occasional treat, never a meal replacement or daily habit; never feed raw fish regularly. Choose light/skipjack tuna over large predatory species to limit mercury exposure. See a vet if a cat on a fish-heavy diet develops wobbliness, tremors, or seizures.","safePortion":"A small spoonful of plain canned tuna in water, given only occasionally — not as a replacement for a balanced cat food.","sources":[{"label":"Merck Veterinary Manual — Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals","url":"https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals","quote":"Thiaminases are found in raw freshwater fish and clams. They can produce a deficiency by rapid destruction of dietary thiamine.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"PMC — The Role of Thiamine and Effects of Deficiency in Dogs and Cats","url":"https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5753639/","quote":"Thiamine deficiency has been documented in animals that have been fed diets containing predominantly raw fish","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"raw-meat","name":"Raw Meat","aliases":["raw diet","BARF diet","raw meat diet","raw-fed"],"category":"meat","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Bacterial contamination — Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli and other pathogens are significantly more common in raw meat than in cooked or commercial cat food, and can sicken both the cat and the people handling its food or litter.","doseNote":"Risk depends on the pathogen load of a given batch of meat, not on the amount fed — thorough cooking removes the risk; a smaller portion does not.","onset":"Foodborne illness signs typically appear within hours to a few days of eating contaminated meat.","signs":["Vomiting and/or diarrhea (sometimes bloody)","Lethargy and reduced appetite","Fever","A cat can also carry and shed bacteria like Salmonella in its stool without appearing sick, exposing people in the household"],"action":"Cook meat thoroughly before feeding, or use a commercial raw diet that has been processed to reduce pathogen load; wash hands, bowls, and surfaces after handling raw meat or a raw-fed cat's litter. Pregnant, elderly, very young, or immunocompromised household members should be especially cautious. See a vet if a cat develops vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy after eating raw meat.","safePortion":"Fully cooked, unseasoned meat is the safe substitute — there is no 'safe amount' of contaminated raw meat, since the risk is bacterial rather than dose-dependent.","sources":[{"label":"FDA — Get the Facts! Raw Pet Food Diets can be Dangerous to You and Your Pet","url":"https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/get-facts-raw-pet-food-diets-can-be-dangerous-you-and-your-pet","quote":"Of the 196 raw pet food samples analyzed, 15 were positive for Salmonella and 32 were positive for L. monocytogenes","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"PMC — Contamination factors associated with surviving bacteria in Thai commercial raw pet foods","url":"https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7566254","quote":"about half of the samples had detectable levels of Salmonella spp.","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets","url":"https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets","quote":"Raw meat and raw eggs can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli that can be harmful to pets and humans alike.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"bacon","name":"Bacon","aliases":["bacon strips","cooked bacon","bacon grease"],"category":"meat","verdict":"caution","toxin":"High fat, salt, and nitrate/nitrite content from curing and cooking. The direct link between high-fat food and pancreatitis is better established in dogs than in cats (per Merck Veterinary Manual), but bacon's sodium content and fat load can still cause digestive upset in cats.","doseNote":"An occasional small taste of plain, well-cooked bacon is unlikely to harm a healthy cat, but bacon should not be a regular treat or meal component. Cats on a sodium-restricted diet (kidney or heart disease) should avoid it entirely.","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea","Lethargy and reduced appetite","Abdominal pain (a possible sign of pancreatitis)","Excessive thirst or urination (from high sodium content)"],"action":"Don't make bacon a regular treat. If given at all, offer only a small piece of plain, fully-cooked bacon rarely, with grease drained off, and avoid it entirely for cats with a history of pancreatitis or on a sodium-restricted diet. Contact a vet if vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain follow.","sources":[{"label":"Merck Veterinary Manual — Pancreatitis in Dogs and Cats","url":"https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/the-exocrine-pancreas/pancreatitis-in-dogs-and-cats","quote":"In cats, dietary fat content may not be as important as in dogs, but high-fat diets are usually avoided.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Is Table Food Poisonous for Dogs?","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-safety-tips/is-table-food-poisonous-for-dogs/","quote":"fatty table foods (such as bacon, gravy, turkey skin, grizzle, etc.), it can result in a gastroenteritis (such as a mild vomiting or diarrhea) to a severe, fatal pancreatitis.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — Be On the Lookout at Your Cookout","url":"https://www.aspca.org/news/be-lookout-your-cookout","quote":"Fatty foods such as hot dogs, burgers, nuts and cheese can also cause concerns, such as pancreatitis, when ingested.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"ham","name":"Ham","aliases":["deli ham","cooked ham","holiday ham"],"category":"meat","verdict":"caution","toxin":"High sodium content — cured/processed ham is very high in salt relative to a cat's small size; excess sodium can cause GI upset and, in large amounts, sodium ion poisoning.","doseNote":"Even a small piece of deli or cured ham can deliver a meaningful share of a cat's daily sodium exposure because it is processed and salted; plain, unseasoned home-cooked ham in a tiny amount carries lower risk than deli ham.","onset":"Salt-toxicosis signs have been reported starting within hours of a large ingestion; a small taste of ham is far more likely to cause only mild GI upset than true sodium poisoning.","signs":["Increased thirst and urination","Vomiting or diarrhea","Lethargy or weakness","Tremors or seizures (only with large sodium ingestion — not expected from a small taste of ham)"],"action":"Avoid deli/processed ham. If offering ham at all, use a small piece of plain, unseasoned, home-cooked ham only occasionally, and skip it entirely for cats on a sodium-restricted diet (kidney or heart disease). Seek veterinary care if a cat shows tremors, seizures, or repeated vomiting.","sources":[{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Sodium Poisoning Symptoms in Dogs and Cats","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-tips/sodium-poisoning-symptoms-in-dogs-and-cats/","quote":"Vomiting Diarrhea Decreased appetite Lethargy Incoordination Excessive thirst or urination Tremors Seizures Coma","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Salt Is Toxic To Pets","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/salt/","quote":"Overdose of salt by animals results in gastrointestinal distress (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea), neurological signs (e.g., stumbling gait, disoriented behavior, tremor, seizure, collapse), and death.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"milk","name":"Milk","aliases":["cow's milk","dairy milk"],"category":"dairy","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Lactose intolerance — cats lose most of their lactase enzyme after weaning, so adult cats generally cannot digest milk's lactose properly.","doseNote":"A large bowl of milk is far more likely to cause problems than a teaspoon-sized taste, but even a small amount offers no nutritional benefit an adult cat needs.","signs":["Diarrhea","Vomiting","Bloating, gas, or abdominal discomfort"],"action":"Don't offer cow's milk as a regular treat or hydration source — fresh water is what cats need. A tiny amount of lactose-free cat milk is a lower-risk option if you want to share a dairy taste, but it isn't necessary. See a vet if diarrhea persists or the cat seems unwell.","sources":[{"label":"Cornell Feline Health Center — Feeding Your Cat","url":"https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feeding-your-cat","quote":"Milk is not generally recommended as a treat for cats, as many cats are lactose-intolerant and can develop gastrointestinal problems if fed dairy products.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Hill's Pet — Can Cats Drink Milk?","url":"https://www.hillspet.com/cat-care/nutrition-feeding/can-cats-drink-milk","quote":"When cats drink milk, most are unable to digest it properly, as they don't have enough of the enzyme responsible for processing milk sugars.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"cheese","name":"Cheese","aliases":["cheddar","string cheese"],"category":"dairy","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Lactose intolerance plus a high fat/salt content relative to a cat's size — most adult cats digest dairy poorly.","doseNote":"Hard, aged cheeses (cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan) are lower in lactose than soft cheeses (cottage cheese, cream cheese, brie) and are the lower-risk choice if sharing any.","onset":"Digestive upset from dairy in a lactose-sensitive cat has been reported roughly eight to twelve hours after ingestion.","signs":["Diarrhea","Vomiting","Reduced appetite or general digestive upset"],"action":"Offer only a dice-sized piece of a hard cheese occasionally (once or twice a week at most), and skip soft, high-lactose cheeses. Stop and consult a vet if diarrhea or vomiting follow, and avoid entirely if the cat has a known dairy sensitivity.","safePortion":"A dice-sized piece of a hard cheese like cheddar or Swiss, once or twice a week at most.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Cheese?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-cheese","quote":"cheeses to avoid include the softer cheeses, which often are much higher in lactose... look for hard cheese like cheddar or Swiss... no more than a dice-sized square only once or twice per week","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Vets Now — Can Cats Eat Cheese, Milk and Dairy Products?","url":"https://www.vets-now.com/pet-care-advice/can-cats-eat-cheese/","quote":"Lactase production slows once the kitten starts weaning... diarrhoea... eight to twelve hours after your cat ingests a dairy product.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"yogurt","name":"Yogurt","aliases":["plain yogurt","Greek yogurt"],"category":"dairy","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Residual lactose — fermentation breaks down much of the lactose in yogurt, making it easier to digest than milk, but some remains and many cats are still lactose-sensitive. Flavored/sweetened yogurts can contain xylitol, which is toxic to cats.","signs":["Diarrhea or loose stool","Vomiting or stomach upset","Signs of xylitol toxicity if a sweetened variety is eaten (vomiting, weakness, collapse) — a separate, more serious emergency"],"action":"Only offer plain, unsweetened yogurt — never a flavored, frozen, or sugar-free/'lite' variety, since those often contain xylitol or added sugar. Keep the amount to a lick or two as an occasional treat. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if a cat eats any xylitol-sweetened product.","safePortion":"A lick or two of plain, unsweetened (or plain Greek) yogurt, once or twice a week at most.","sources":[{"label":"Chewy — Can Cats Eat Yogurt? What Cat Parents Should Know","url":"https://www.chewy.com/education/cat/food-and-nutrition/can-cats-eat-yogurt","quote":"Yes, cats can eat a small amount of plain yogurt, but it's still not a particularly good treat... For most healthy adult cats, a lick or two of plain yogurt once or twice a week is plenty.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Catster — Can Cats Eat Yogurt?","url":"https://www.catster.com/nutrition/can-cats-eat-yogurt/","quote":"the process of making yogurt involves fermenting milk with cultures. This breaks the lactose in the yogurt into smaller compounds, making it a bit easier for felines to digest... Flavored yogurts often have artificial flavorings, which can be extremely dangerous for felines—particularly xylitol","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"ice-cream","name":"Ice Cream","aliases":["frozen dessert","gelato"],"category":"dairy","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Lactose, high sugar, and high fat combined, plus a real risk that certain flavors contain ingredients toxic to cats (chocolate, coffee, or xylitol in sugar-free versions).","signs":["Diarrhea or vomiting (lactose/fat related)","Signs of pancreatitis with larger amounts (abdominal pain, lethargy, repeated vomiting)","Severe symptoms (vomiting, tremors, seizures, collapse) if a toxic flavor like chocolate or xylitol was involved — a medical emergency"],"action":"Avoid ice cream as a treat. If a cat licks a small taste of plain vanilla, it's unlikely to cause more than mild stomach upset, but never offer chocolate, coffee, or sugar-free/xylitol-sweetened ice cream. Seek emergency vet care if a toxic flavor was eaten or symptoms are severe.","safePortion":"At most a lick or two of plain vanilla ice cream, and only rarely — there is no meaningful 'safe' regular portion.","sources":[{"label":"Cats.com — Can Cats Eat Ice Cream?","url":"https://cats.com/can-cats-eat-ice-cream","quote":"the high-fat content could cause your cat a painful bout of pancreatitis... something rich like ice cream, combined with the fact that cats are lactose intolerant, means that a bout of vomiting and diarrhea is far more likely... ice cream might contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to cats, and chocolate ice cream is a no-no","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Catster — Can Cats Eat Ice Cream?","url":"https://www.catster.com/nutrition/can-cats-eat-ice-cream/","quote":"Cats don't have the necessary digestive enzymes to break down lactose... chocolate can be life-threatening to cats in large enough amounts... can disrupt the cat's normal heart rhythm and cause tremors and seizures.","verifiedBy":"manual","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"potatoes","name":"Potatoes","aliases":["cooked potato","mashed potato","potato skin"],"category":"vegetable","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Solanine — a glycoalkaloid concentrated in raw potato flesh, green-tinged skin, sprouts ('eyes'), and all above-ground parts of the potato plant. Cooking substantially reduces solanine, so plain cooked potato flesh is the caution-not-toxic exception; raw or green potato is a genuine toxin exposure.","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea","Hypersalivation and reduced appetite","Weakness, tremors, or drowsiness with larger raw/green-potato ingestions (nervous-system effects of solanine)"],"action":"Only feed plain, fully cooked, peeled potato flesh (no butter, salt, or gravy) in small amounts. Never feed raw potato, green-tinged potato, potato skins, sprouts, or any part of the potato plant. Contact a vet if a cat eats raw or green potato, or shows vomiting, tremors, or lethargy.","safePortion":"A small piece of plain, fully cooked, peeled potato, occasionally.","sources":[{"label":"ASPCA — Pets and Produce: Top Tips on Vegetable Garden Safety","url":"https://www.aspca.org/news/pets-and-produce-top-tips-vegetable-garden-safety","quote":"raw potatoes may be problematic for your pet, but cooked potatoes are fine in moderation.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Potatoes?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-potatoes","quote":"raw potatoes, the potato skin, and all parts of the potato plant contain a toxin called solanine, which is poisonous to our kitties.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"tomatoes","name":"Tomatoes","aliases":["cherry tomato","tomato plant"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Solanine/tomatine — concentrated in the unripe green fruit, leaves, and stems of the tomato plant. Toxin content drops sharply as the fruit ripens, so ripe tomato flesh is not toxic.","signs":["Hypersalivation and reduced appetite","Vomiting and gastrointestinal upset","Weakness, dilated pupils, or a slowed heart rate with larger ingestions of unripe plant material"],"action":"Ripe, red tomato flesh in small amounts is not a concern; keep cats away from tomato plants and don't let them eat green tomatoes, leaves, or stems. Contact a vet if a cat chews on the plant or eats unripe tomatoes and shows vomiting or lethargy.","safePortion":"A small piece of ripe, red tomato flesh only — never the plant, stems, leaves, or unripe green fruit.","sources":[{"label":"ASPCA — Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Tomato Plant","url":"https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/tomato-plant","quote":"Solanine... hypersalivation, inappetence, severe gastrointestinal upset, depression, weakness, dilated pupils, slow heart rate; ripe fruit is non-toxic","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — Pets and Produce: Top Tips on Vegetable Garden Safety","url":"https://www.aspca.org/news/pets-and-produce-top-tips-vegetable-garden-safety","quote":"tomato plants and unripe tomatoes are toxic? The plant and small green tomatoes contain tomatine, which can cause vomiting, weakness and even heart issues.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"mushrooms","name":"Mushrooms","aliases":["button mushroom","wild mushroom"],"category":"vegetable","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Toxin varies entirely by species — plain culinary mushrooms sold for human consumption (button, cremini, portobello) pose no expected toxicity, while wild/foraged mushrooms may contain a wide range of potent toxins that can cause severe organ damage. The two categories cannot reliably be told apart without expertise.","signs":["Vomiting and diarrhea","Ataxia, tremors, seizures, or disorientation (nervous-system toxins in some wild species)","Black, tarry stool or elevated liver enzymes (liver-toxic species)","Increased thirst/urination progressing to kidney failure (kidney-toxic species)"],"action":"Plain, grocery-store mushrooms are not a concern in small amounts. Treat any wild or unidentified mushroom found outdoors or in the home as potentially toxic and keep cats away from them. If a cat eats a wild mushroom, contact Pet Poison Helpline or a vet immediately, ideally with a sample or photo for identification, since some toxic species cause delayed, severe illness.","sources":[{"label":"ASPCA — The Fungus Among Us: Mushroom Toxicosis","url":"https://www.aspca.org/news/fungus-among-us-mushroom-toxicosis","quote":"Mushrooms sold in grocery stores for human consumption are generally considered safe for pets and are not expected to cause adverse effects if ingested.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Can Cats Eat Mushrooms?","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-tips/can-cats-eat-mushrooms/","quote":"it is best practice to treat all mushrooms not purchased for human consumption as toxic.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"popcorn","name":"Popcorn","aliases":["air-popped popcorn"],"category":"other","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Not a toxin concern itself — the risks are physical (choking or obstruction from hard kernels) and from typical additives (butter, salt, and toppings like caramel or chocolate).","signs":["Gagging, pawing at the mouth, or choking on a whole kernel","Vomiting or diarrhea from butter/salt/fat","Signs of intestinal obstruction (repeated vomiting, lethargy, not eating) if unpopped kernels are swallowed and don't pass"],"action":"If sharing popcorn, use only plain, air-popped popcorn with no butter, salt, or toppings, and remove unpopped kernels first. Watch for choking, and see a vet promptly if a cat seems to be straining, vomiting repeatedly, or not eating afterward (possible obstruction).","safePortion":"A few pieces of plain, air-popped popcorn, kernels removed, only occasionally.","sources":[{"label":"PetMD — Can Cats Eat Popcorn?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-popcorn","quote":"Popcorn kernels are often fairly large compared to the size of a cat's mouth. If your cat tries to chew them, it may result in choking or even obstructions if swallowed whole.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Learn Which Human Food Is Safe For Dogs","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-safety-tips/what-are-some-foods-safe-to-feed-pets/","quote":"Popcorn (Hold the butter and salt!)","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"avocado","name":"Avocado","aliases":["avocado flesh","avocado pit","guacamole"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Persin — a compound in avocado leaves, skin, and pit. Persin is well-documented as toxic to birds, rabbits, horses, and ruminants, but cats and dogs are considerably less sensitive to it (Pet Poison Helpline lists avocado as non-toxic to cats via persin). The more realistic risks for cats are the pit as a choking/obstruction hazard and the fruit's high fat content.","signs":["Vomiting or diarrhea (fat content, not persin)","Gagging, drooling, or straining if a piece of pit is swallowed","Signs of intestinal obstruction (repeated vomiting, lethargy, reduced appetite, not passing stool) if the pit or skin is swallowed and lodges in the gut"],"action":"Keep the pit and skin away from cats entirely — cut fruit into pieces and dispose of the pit securely. A small taste of plain avocado flesh is unlikely to cause the persin-related illness seen in other species, but keep portions tiny given the fat content. Seek veterinary care promptly if a cat may have swallowed part of a pit, or shows repeated vomiting, straining, or lethargy.","safePortion":"A small piece of plain avocado flesh only, no skin or pit, occasionally.","sources":[{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Avocado","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/avocado/","quote":"Ingestion of the avocado seed can result in an intestinal obstruction... Avocados contain persin which is toxic to birds, rabbits, horses, and ruminants e.g., cows, goats.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Avocado","url":"https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/avocado","quote":"Toxic to Horses... Persin... Respiratory distress, heart failure, edema","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"dog-food","name":"Dog Food","aliases":["dog kibble","canine food"],"category":"other","verdict":"caution","toxin":"Not a toxin — dog food is nutritionally incomplete for cats. It lacks adequate taurine (an amino acid cats cannot synthesize in sufficient quantity, unlike dogs), and typically contains too little vitamin A and arachidonic acid for feline needs.","signs":["Dilated cardiomyopathy (weakened heart) from taurine deficiency over time","Vision loss (retinal degeneration) from taurine deficiency","Poor coat quality and muscle weakness from vitamin A deficiency","These develop only with sustained, long-term feeding of dog food, not from a single meal"],"action":"An occasional bite of dog food (e.g., in a multi-pet household) is not dangerous, but don't feed dog food as a cat's regular or sole diet — use a complete-and-balanced cat food instead. If a cat has been eating mostly dog food for weeks or longer, see a vet to check for taurine-related heart or eye problems.","sources":[{"label":"Merck Veterinary Manual — Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs and Cats","url":"https://www.merckvetmanual.com/circulatory-system/cardiomyopathy-in-dogs-and-cats/dilated-cardiomyopathy-in-dogs-and-cats","quote":"taurine deficiency was responsible for most cases (taurine-responsive DCM). Since then, taurine has been added to all commercial cat foods.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Merck Veterinary Manual — Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals","url":"https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals","quote":"Taurine is an essential amino acid in diets for cats, and taurine deficiency can cause dilated cardiomyopathy and central retinal degeneration in cats.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"PetMD — Is It Safe for Cats to Eat Dog Food?","url":"https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-dog-food","quote":"No, cats cannot be maintained on a dog food diet. If a cat is only fed dog food for a long period of time, then detrimental, if not deadly, consequences can occur.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"chocolate","name":"Chocolate","aliases":["cocoa","cacao","dark chocolate","baking chocolate","cocoa powder"],"category":"other","verdict":"toxic","toxin":"Theobromine and caffeine (methylxanthines)","doseNote":"No safe dose established for cats specifically. Published mg/kg toxicity thresholds (Merck Veterinary Manual: mild signs ~20 mg/kg, cardiotoxic effects 40-50 mg/kg, seizures ≥60 mg/kg) are established in dogs, not cats — treat any feline ingestion as an emergency regardless of amount.","onset":"6-12 hours","signs":["Vomiting","Diarrhea","Restlessness or agitation","Increased or irregular heart rate","Muscle tremors","Seizures"],"action":"Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control hotline (ASPCA APCC 888-426-4435; Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661) immediately, even before signs appear. Do not induce vomiting at home — there is no safe way to do this in cats.","sources":[{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Signs of Chocolate Poisoning in Cats","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-tips/signs-of-chocolate-poisoning-in-cats/","quote":"There is no safe way to induce vomiting in cats at home, so take your cat to the vet clinic as soon as possible.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Merck Veterinary Manual — Chocolate Toxicosis in Animals","url":"https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/chocolate-toxicosis-in-animals","quote":"Clinical signs of chocolate toxicosis usually occur within 6–12 hours after ingestion.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — What to Do If Your Pet Gets into Chocolate","url":"https://www.aspca.org/news/what-do-if-your-pet-gets-chocolate","quote":"Cats are sensitive to theobromine just like dogs, so if a cat ingests chocolate it can be dangerous for them as well.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"grapes-raisins","name":"Grapes & Raisins","aliases":["raisins","sultanas","currants","dried grapes"],"category":"fruit","verdict":"toxic","toxin":"Unknown mechanism; tartaric acid is the leading suspected toxic principle, associated with acute kidney injury","doseNote":"No safe dose established","onset":"Not established in cats specifically (no published feline case reports); in dogs, acute kidney injury can develop over the following several days after initial GI signs","signs":["Vomiting","Diarrhea or loss of appetite","Lethargy","Abdominal pain","Reduced or absent urination (possible kidney failure)","Weakness"],"action":"Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control hotline immediately after any grape, raisin, or currant ingestion — even a small amount and even with no symptoms yet. Do not wait and see, and do not induce vomiting at home without professional guidance.","sources":[{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Are Grapes and Raisins Poisonous to Dogs?","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-safety-tips/are-grapes-and-raisins-poisonous-to-dogs/","quote":"there have been anecdotal reports of cats and ferrets being affected by these also... The toxicity is not necessarily dose-dependent, and symptoms can occur with even small ingestions.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Merck Veterinary Manual — Grape, Raisin, and Tamarind Toxicosis in Dogs","url":"https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/grape-raisin-and-tamarind-vitis-spp-tamarindus-spp-toxicosis-in-dogs","quote":"anecdotal reports exist of renal failure in cats and ferrets after ingesting grapes or raisins, although there are no published case reports in these species.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — Leah's Close Call: A Handful of Grapes Nearly Cost One Dog Her Life","url":"https://www.aspca.org/news/leahs-close-call-handful-grapes-nearly-cost-one-dog-her-life","quote":"cats may also be affected","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"onions","name":"Onions","aliases":["onion powder","cooked onion","raw onion","dehydrated onion flakes","green onion","scallion"],"category":"vegetable","verdict":"toxic","toxin":"Organosulfur compounds (N-propyl disulfide, thiosulfates) causing oxidative damage to red blood cells (Heinz body hemolytic anemia)","doseNote":"Toxicosis has been reported in cats after ingesting less than a teaspoon of cooked onions or 5 g/kg of raw onions (Merck Veterinary Manual).","onset":"3-5 days for hemolytic anemia to develop; GI upset (vomiting) may occur sooner","signs":["Vomiting","Lethargy or weakness","Pale or yellow (icteric) gums","Rapid heart rate and breathing","Red or brown-tinged urine (hemoglobinuria)","Collapse in severe cases"],"action":"Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control hotline immediately, even if your cat seems fine — hemolytic anemia can take several days to appear. Do not induce vomiting at home; a vet will likely want blood work (CBC) to check for Heinz bodies and anemia.","sources":[{"label":"Merck Veterinary Manual — Garlic and Onion (Allium spp) Toxicosis in Animals","url":"https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/garlic-and-onion-allium-spp-toxicosis-in-animals","quote":"Cats are the most susceptible species, followed by dogs... toxicosis has been reported in cats after ingesting less than a teaspoon of cooked onions or 5 g/kg of raw onions","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Onion","url":"https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/onion","quote":"Vomiting, breakdown of red blood cells (hemolytic anemia, Heinz body anemia), blood in urine, weakness, high heart rate, panting","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Onions Are Toxic to Dogs (and Cats)","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/onion/","quote":"all are poisonous to dogs, cats, and livestock... Poisonous doses of Alliums damage red blood cells leading to anemia and cause GI distress with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"},{"slug":"garlic","name":"Garlic","aliases":["garlic powder","garlic salt","raw garlic","cooked garlic","granulated garlic"],"category":"vegetable","verdict":"toxic","toxin":"Organosulfur compounds (thiosulfates, disulfides) causing oxidative damage to red blood cells (Heinz body hemolytic anemia); more concentrated than in onion","doseNote":"No safe dose established","onset":"3-5 days for hemolytic anemia to develop","signs":["Vomiting or drooling","Lethargy and weakness","Pale or yellow (icteric) gums","Rapid heart rate and breathing","Red or brown-tinged urine (hemoglobinuria)","Collapse in severe cases"],"action":"Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control hotline immediately, even if your cat seems fine — hemolytic anemia can take several days to appear. Do not induce vomiting at home; a vet will likely want blood work (CBC) to check for Heinz bodies and anemia.","sources":[{"label":"Merck Veterinary Manual — Garlic and Onion (Allium spp) Toxicosis in Animals","url":"https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/garlic-and-onion-allium-spp-toxicosis-in-animals","quote":"Garlic is 3–5 times more toxic than onion.","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"},{"label":"Pet Poison Helpline — Garlic Is Toxic to Dogs (and Cats)","url":"https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/garlic/","quote":"Garlic, along with chives, onion, and leeks, belongs to the Allium family; all are poisonous to dogs, cats, and livestock... Certain animal species and breeds are more sensitive to Alliums including cats and Japanese breeds of dogs","verifiedBy":"auto","verifiedOn":"2026-09-15"}],"lastReviewed":"2026-09-15"}]