I’ve spent fifteen years with cats sprawled across my keyboard and staring at my dinner plate. My current queen – a tortoiseshell named Pepper – could teach a masterclass in the art of food-begging. Those big eyes. That gentle paw tap. The hopeful chirp. Sound familiar?
But here’s the thing: cats aren’t tiny humans in fur coats. Their digestive systems play by different rules. Before you share your salmon or offer a bit of chicken, let’s talk about 25 human foods that won’t just satisfy their curiosity – they’ll support their health.
Consider this your permission slip to (sometimes) give in to those pleading eyes.
1. Cooked Chicken
Plain, cooked chicken is a great source of protein for cats. Make sure it’s unseasoned and free from bones. Cats love the taste of chicken, and it provides essential nutrients without unnecessary additives. Always cook thoroughly to kill any bacteria and ensure safety.
While sharing a bite of your meal, remember that cooked chicken is a treat and not a staple. Too much can lead to an imbalanced diet. A small piece now and then will keep your cat purring with joy.
2. Salmon
Salmon is a feline superfood packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for their coat and skin. Cooked salmon, free from seasoning, offers a delightful taste that cats adore. It’s a nutritious option that can complement your cat’s diet.
Avoid raw salmon to prevent any risk of parasites or bacteria. A small piece of cooked salmon can be a rewarding treat. Remember, moderation is key to prevent any digestive issues.
3. Scrambled Eggs
This is a protein-rich treat that cats enjoy. But make sure they’re cooked without salt or butter. Eggs provide essential amino acids that enhance your cat’s diet. They’re also easy to digest, making them a suitable option for most cats.
Offer scrambled eggs occasionally, as too much can disrupt their regular diet. Keep it simple, with no added oils or spices. A small amount is sufficient to satisfy their taste buds.
4. Pumpkin
Pumpkin is purrfect for cats, especially for digestive health. It’s rich in fiber, which helps them with any constipation issues. Serve pureed pumpkin without any added sugar or spices.
A small spoonful added to their meal can boost their fiber intake. Pumpkin is also hydrating, which can be beneficial for cats that don’t drink much water. Introduce pumpkin slowly into your cat’s diet to see how they react.
5. Blueberries
Blueberries are safe and offer antioxidants that are beneficial for cats. These tiny berries can be a fun treat, especially when fresh and juicy. They provide vitamins that support overall health.
Offer one or two at a time, as they can be a choking hazard if too big. Freeze them for a refreshing snack during warmer days. Blueberries are a low-calorie treat and can be an occasional addition to your cat’s diet.
6. Carrots
That’s right. Carrots are crunchy and packed with vitamins, making them a delightful snack for your fur-babies. Cooked carrots are easier for cats to chew and digest.
They provide beta-carotene, which is good for eye health. Chop them into small pieces to prevent any choking hazard. Serve them cooked and cooled as a small treat. Cats might enjoy the crunchy texture and sweet taste.
7. Cheese
Spoiler alert: your cat can have a little cheese—just not too much! Cheese is rich in protein and calcium, but should be given in moderation. Some cats may be lactose intolerant, so watch for any adverse reactions.
Offer small amounts of plain cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella. Avoid processed cheese or those with added flavors. It can be a handy way to hide pills if your cat is on medication. Remember, cheese is a treat, not a meal.
8. Apples
Some cats may enjoy them, some won’t care. They’re safe as long as the seeds and core are removed. Apples provide vitamins A and C, contributing to overall health.
The crisp texture can be intriguing to your beloved pet. It’s a new texture and taste for them to explore. Remember to serve in moderation, as too much can upset their stomach. Keep it fresh and simple to maintain its health benefits.
9. Watermelon
Pepper loves watermelon. Since it is refreshing and hydrating, it’s perfect on a hot day. It’s low in calories and high in water content, making it a safe treat.
Offer small cubes or slices to prevent choking. The sweet taste is appealing to some cats, and it’s a great way to keep them hydrated. Ensure you remove all seeds and rind before serving.
10. Peas
Peas are small but pack a punch in nutrition, offering vitamins and minerals. They’re cat safe and can be fun for them to chase and eat them. Cooked peas are easier to digest and should be served plain.
The sweet taste and soft texture can be appealing to cats. Introduce peas in small amounts to see how your cat reacts. They’re a healthy addition that can complement regular cat food. Watch your cat enjoy these tiny green treats, adding color and nutrition to their meal.
11. Bananas
They are sweet and a good source of potassium for cats. Offer a small slice as an occasional treat. The soft texture makes it easy for cats to eat.
But be careful, too much banana can upset their stomach due to the sugar content. Monitor your cat’s reaction and adjust the portion accordingly. Bananas can be a fun addition to snack time, providing a new texture and taste.
12. Cucumber
We’ve all seen funny videos of cat’s being startled by cucumbers. But if you cut them into small pieces your fur balls might actually enjoy them.
Cucumber is hydrating and low in calories, making it a safe treat for cats. Serve thin slices to prevent choking. It’s a great way to introduce some hydration, especially for cats that don’t drink much water. Cucumber can be a refreshing addition to your cat’s treat rotation.
13. Green Beans
Green beans are safe and nutritious, loaded with fiber and vitamins. But cook them. That way they will be easier for cats to chew and digest. They’re a great low-calorie snack option.
Chop them into manageable pieces. Serve them plain and cooled down for the best experience. Introduce green beans as an occasional treat. They add color and nutrition to your cat’s diet and can be a fun way to mix things up.
14. Zucchini
This one is not approved by my dear fur-child. But, zucchini is a safe vegetable for cats. It’s low in calories and provides a crunchy texture that some cats might enjoy.
Serve cooked or raw, but ensure it’s sliced into small pieces. It’s a versatile treat that can be served alone or mixed with their regular food. Keep it simple and enjoy watching your cat explore this new taste (maybe).
15. Sweet Potato
Cooked sweet potatoes are easier for cats to digest and should be served plain. The sweet taste can be appealing to cats, making it a delightful treat. Offer in small amounts to ensure it complements their diet.
Sweet potatoes can add variety to your cat’s meals, providing something new. They’re a healthy addition when given in moderation.
16. Rice
Plain, cooked rice is a nice, bland option that can help with digestive upset in cats. It’s safe and can be added to their regular food.
Avoid flavored rice or those with additives. A small amount mixed with their meal can help settle an upset stomach. Rice can be a comforting addition when your cat isn’t feeling well. It’s simple, easy to digest, and can aid in recovery.
17. Turkey
Turkey is rich in protein and a safe treat when cooked plainly. It’s important to remove any skin and bones before offering it to your cat. Serve small pieces to ensure it’s easy for them to chew and digest. Turkey can be an exciting addition to their treat lineup.
Offer turkey occasionally to add variety and excitement to your cat’s diet. It’s a healthy protein source that can complement their regular meals.
18. Spinach
Spinach is full of vitamins and minerals, it is as good for cat as it is for humans. Serve cooked spinach plain to make it easier to digest.
But avoid giving too much as it can cause digestive upset. Introduce spinach in small amounts to see how your cat reacts.
19. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is safe for cats and offers fiber and nutrients. Serve it plain and cooked, without any added sugar or flavors.
A small amount can be a comforting treat, especially during colder months. Always keep it plain to ensure it’s safe and healthy.
20. Broccoli
It is full of vitamins an safe, but not every cat will approve. Introduce broccoli in small amounts to see how your cat likes it. It’s a low-calorie treat that can be a fun addition to their diet.
Serve it cooked and plain to make it easier for cats to chew and digest. And remember it is a snack not a regular meal.
21. Yogurt
Most of the cats I encountered like yoghurt. Plain yogurt is a safe in moderation. Just make sure it’s plain and without added sugars or flavors.
Offer a small spoonful to see if your cat enjoys it. Like some humans, some cats are lactose intolerant, so monitor their reaction. It can provide probiotics that can aid digestion.
22. Pineapple
Pineapple is sweet and offers vitamins that can benefit cats. Remove the core and serve small pieces to ensure safety.
The tropical taste can be intriguing, but offer in moderation due to its sugar content. Monitor their reaction to this new flavor. Pineapple is a safe treat when given in small amounts, adding an exotic twist to their diet.
23. Lettuce
Cats like the crunch, so you may try giving your ball of fluff some lettuce. Lettuce is hydrating and low in calories, perfect for a light cat treat.
Serve small pieces to avoid choking. Lettuce is a safe way to introduce some hydration into their diet. Watch your cat nibble on this crunchy green delight.
24. Quinoa
One of Pepper’s favorites is quinoa. It is a protein-rich grain that’s safe for cats only in small amounts. It has to be cooked plain and served without any added spices or flavors.
I introduced quinoa as a supplement to my cat’s regular food. It’s packed with nutrients and can be a healthy addition to their diet. Keep it simple to ensure it’s a safe and enjoyable treat.
25. Cooked Shrimp
Cooked Shrimp
I once had a cat named Fluffy (I’m not creative in cat naming), who adored cooked shrimp. You can try giving it to your cat, just ensure the shrimp is fully cooked and free of seasoning or sauces.
Cats are naturally drawn to seafood, and shrimp offers a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. A small shrimp or two, occasionally, makes for a nice treat. Always remove the shell and tail before offering it to your feline friend.