Some of these are blantantly obvious, others not so. Many are not dangerous as such, but can cause various problems. If i can find a better and more accurate list i'll post it up.
Alcohol:
I would like to hope that nobody would actually try giving a cat alcohol. Alcohol can cause intoxication, gastrointestinal irritation, respiratory distress, coma & death.
Apricot, cherry, peach pits, almond nuts, apple seeds:
All of the above contain cyanogenic glycosides which will result in cyanide poisoning. This interferes with the ability of the blood to release oxygen into the tissues, so the cat effectively suffocates while it's blood is full of oxygen.
Avocado:
Avocado contains a toxin known as persin. It is found in all parts of the avocado & is toxic to most domestic animals.
The symptoms include gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory distress, congestion, fluid accumulation around the tissues of the heart and even death.
Citrus:
May cause vomiting in cats.
Cooked bones:
Cooked bones can splinter & cause an obstruction, therefore they should be avoided.
Chocolate, Coffee & Tea
Chocolate contains naturally occurring methylxanthines caffeine & theobromine. The concentration of theobromine is much higher than that of caffeine, but both cause toxicity in cats (and dogs). These chemicals act as a diuretic, causing the body to lose fluids, act as a cardiac stimulant, causing it to race & is also a central nervous system stimulant.
All types of chocolate should be avoided, including dark, milk, white & cocoa powders.
Grapes & raisins:
These have been known to cause kidney damage. The active ingredient hasn't been identified.
Macadamia nuts:
Macadamia nuts have been known to cause tremors & muscle weakness in dogs, therefore it's best to apply caution & avoid giving them to cats.
Milk:
While this won't kill your cat, some cats are lactose intolerant & drinking cow's milk will cause a tummy upset.
Weaned cats no longer need to drink milk, however if you do want to give your cat some milk as an occasional treat them the best solution is to buy some cat milk from your supermarket.
Mushrooms:
There are many types of mushrooms which are poisonous. While dogs are far more likely to eat mushrooms than cats, it is advised you avoid giving your cats any type of mushrooms to be on the safe side.
Fat:
While fat isn't toxic to cats per se, it's not healthy to routinely feed your cat a diet high in animal fats as it will lead to obesity. Large amounts of fat can also cause pancreatitis.
Liver:
Small amounts of liver are fine to eat, but if fed too often it can result in Vitamin A toxicosis.
Onion & Garlic:
Onions contain sulfoxides and disulfides which damage red blood cells & can cause haemolytic anaemia.
Be careful when feeding your cat human foods, some people will recommend baby food for a cat who's lost it's appetite. This is fine, but make sure the food doesn't contain any onion, flakes, powder etc.
Onion causes greater problems than garlic.
Potato (green parts & eyes):
These contain solanine glycosides which can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhoea, nervous system stimulation, depression, trembling, paralysis & cardiac arrest.
Salt:
Large quantities of salt can lead to an electrolyte imbalance.
Tomato:
See potatoes.
Tuna:
This is another food which is fine to feed as an occasional treat, but musn't be fed regularly, as it can lead to a condition known as Steatitis or Yellow Fat Disease.
Yeast dough:
This can expand in the stomach causing bloating & discomfort.
Other foods which your cat shouldn't eat:
Soy & Rice Bran
Raisins
Rhubarb
Spoiled or mouldy food. If it's gone off, don't give it to your cat.
Hops
It is always a good idea to check with your vet before giving your cat food which is meant for human consumption, just to be on the safe side.
Do any of you TP`ers have pets with odd tastes?
