Can Cats Eat Human Food? IPB University Lecturer Gives Explanation

IPB University Veterinary Paramedic Study Program lecturer, drh. Tetty Barunawati Siagian, provided some facts about cat eating behavior. She mentioned that cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need nutrients that are only found in meat. 

She said cats can consume some types of human food. However, not all are safe for them. In fact, some of them can trigger allergic reactions, even though they are meat-based. 

“The most common cat food allergens include beef, fish or seafood, eggs, chicken or turkey, and dairy products. It should be noted that allergy to dairy products is different from lactose intolerance in cats,” she explains.

Aside from the risk of allergies, human food that is not specially formulated for cats can also adversely affect the digestive system. It can also cause cats to experience vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and even poisoning.

Here are some foods that harm cats according to Dr Tetty:

1. Chocolate: Contains theobromine which is toxic to cats.
2. Onions, leeks and garlic: Can damage a cat’s red blood cells and cause anemia.
3. Grapes and raisins: Can cause acute kidney failure in cats.
4. Alcohol: Even in small amounts, alcohol can be very dangerous and cause poisoning in cats as well as severe liver and brain damage.
5. Caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks)
6. High-fat or oily foods: Can cause obesity or digestive problems in cats.
7. Dairy products: Adult cats can become lactose intolerant. Their bodies no longer produce enough lactase to digest milk, especially cow’s milk. If ingested, dairy products can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

In addition, she continues, human food usually contains seasonings, salt, sugar or additives that are not good for cats’ health. 

Naturally, cats also do not eat fruits or vegetables. In fact, many cats completely reject fruits and vegetables, especially in their raw state. 

“Cats cannot process raw plant material because they cannot break down plant cellulose,” explained Dr Tetty.

However, she said, vegetables and fruits can be beneficial for cats if processed properly. Vegetables and fruits need to be mashed first to break down cellulose.

This IPB University Vocational School lecturer provides several healthy food recommendations that can be given to cats:

1. Chicken or turkey (cooked without seasoning): Contains protein, vitamin B6, selenium, phosphorus, and omega-6.
2. Beef (cooked without seasoning): Rich in protein, vitamin A, vitamin B, and vitamin C.
3. Fish (cooked without seasoning): A good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for your cat’s coat and skin.
4. Pumpkin (cooked and mashed): Beneficial for cats with constipation or diarrhea.
5. Broccoli (cooked and mashed): Safe and healthy for cats as it contains vitamin C, carotenoids, dietary fiber and antioxidants.
6. Peas (cooked and mashed): A source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A and potassium.
7. Carrots (cooked and mashed): Contains fiber, vitamin A, and beta-carotene.
8. Spinach (cooked and mashed): A source of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.

Meanwhile, commercial dry feeds on the market have been developed to provide the right balance of nutrients and calories for cats. If they are of good quality and contain complete and balanced nutrition, they can provide everything a cat needs for optimal health. 

According to Dr Tetty, the selection of commercial dry feed should take into account the needs of the animal, such as age, weight and daily activity. The nutrients required by cats include protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and taurine. 

“Dry feed contains less water and has a higher concentration of nutrients. So, there is no need to feed it too much. Commercial feed is better because it is formulated for cat nutrition,” she explains. (dh) (IAAS/RUM)