What Do Cats Eat? 36 Human Foods Cats Can Eat – And 8 They Can’t!

If you’ve ever sat in front of a cat and had a plate of food in front of you and seen your cat just sitting there staring at you like a critic in the waiting room in furry little critic shape, then you’ve probably asked yourself: What do cats eat? Can they have a bite of chicken, or is that piece of cheese forbidden?

Cats are curious by nature and that includes being curious about your dinner. While some human foods are safe (even healthy) for cats, others can cause serious health issues. As a pet parent myself, I’ve made the mistake of sharing bites with my cats before learning what’s truly safe. Today, let’s walk through the human foods cats can eat (and love!) and the ones they absolutely shouldn’t.

Why Cats Can’t Eat Everything We Do

Remembering prior to doing the list: cats are obligate carnivores. That is, their body is adapted to work best on animal protein. Yes, they can be given an occasional apple, carrot, or piece of grain, but these are not to be utilized as a substitute for their regular diet of good quality cat food.

Human Foods Cats Can Eat (36 Safe Options)

Here’s the good news play news for curious cats! These foods can be used as the occasional treat (not as a main meal).

1. Meat and Protein Sources

Cats are carnivores, after all, so plain cooked meat is generally okay:

• Chicken (cooked, boneless and with no seasonings)

• Turkey

• Beef

• Lamb

• Pork (only lean, fully cooked, in small amounts)

• Fish (such as salmon or tuna, cooked and boneless)

• Eggs (scrambled or hard-boiled, never raw)

Tip: Always finish cooking the meat and never use seasonings, garlic, or onion powder.

2. Fruits Cats Can Safely Eat

Much to your surprise, some cats enjoy fruit. Though not technically a nutritional requirement, they’re okay in small quantities:

• Watermelon (seedless, excellent for keeping them well-hydrated)

• Blueberries

• Apples (peeled, no seeds)

• Bananas

• Strawberries

• Cantaloupe

• Pumpkin (cooked or canned, plain)

3. Vegetables That Are Cat-Friendly

Vegetables can be added to provide fiber and variety to the feline diet:

• Carrots (cooked, soft)

• Green beans

• Peas

• Zucchini

• Broccoli (steamed, small florets)

• Spinach (if your cat does not have urinary problems)

4. Dairy (In Moderation)

Cats are usually lactose intolerant, but a few cats can handle a small amount of the following:

• Cheese (small pieces)

• Plain unsweetened yogurt

5. Other Safe Human Foods

• Rice (plain cooked)

• Oatmeal

• Bread (small amounts, not great but acceptable)

• Unsalted peanut butter (very seldom, small lick)

Human Foods Cats Should Avoid (8 Dangerous Ones)

Not all on your plate is safe for your cat. Some are poisonous or harmful to cats:

• Grapes & Raisins ❌ – Cause kidney failure.

• Onions & Garlic ❌ – Destroy red blood cells, leading to anemia.

• Chocolate & Caffeine ❌ – Toxic to cats because of theobromine.

• Alcohol ❌ – Even small quantities are lethal.

• Avocado ⚠ – Persin irritates the feline stomach.

• Raw Fish ⚠ – Paralysis risk, thiamine deficiency.

• Nuts (especially macadamia) ⚠ – Not digestible, induces vomiting.

• Xylitol (in sugar-free gum or candy) ❌ – Toxic, can lead to liver failure.

Quick Reference Table: Can Cats Eat This?

Is It Okay to Give Cats Human Food?

It’s one of the most frequent questions I receive from owners. The short answer is: yes, but sometimes, and only the right foods.

Cats’ digestive systems can’t process heavy spices, sugar, and processed foods. Purr-haps make human food a “treat bonus” not a meal substitute. A small amount of chicken or slice of pumpkin is fine, but always follow up with the correct cat food.

Signs Your Cat Ate Something Unsafe

Oops moments do occur! If your cat snatches a grape or takes a bite of some chocolate, look out for these symptoms:

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Lethargy

• Drooling

• Difficulty breathing

• Tremors or seizures

If you suspect that your cat has eaten something poisonous, call your vet right away.

FAQs About What Cats Can Eat

Can kittens eat watermelon?

Yes, kittens may be offered seedless watermelon in small amounts but should otherwise eat kitten food to develop properly.

Can cats eat pumpkin?

Yes! Plain pumpkin (canned or cooked, unsweetened) is a super digestive and constipation remedy.

Are apples safe for cats?

Yes seeds removed. Apple seeds contain cyanide, which is poisonous.

Can cats eat scrambled eggs?

Yes, scrambled or boiled eggs (no butter or oil) are a protein treat. Do not give raw eggs.

Why can’t cats eat grapes or onions?

They are poisonous grapes ruin kidneys, onions ruin blood cells. Even tiny amounts will hurt.

Is it okay to give cats human food every day?

Absolutely not. Small portions of gourmet foods are fine, but everyday dependence on human food can be out of balance. Feed them cat food as their everyday food.

Final Thoughts

So what do cats eat? The short answer: loads of human food pumpkin and chicken, eggs and blueberries but never too much. Have them as unnecessary supplements, not the centerpiece of each meal. No less important, however, is discovering what cats do not eat, such as grapes, onions, and chocolate.

And lastly, your cat’s health is most vital. Treats of health food at times when you feel there has been a moment of bonding should be rewarded, but let their bowl overflow with good wholesome well-balanced cat food. Your pet will thank you in purrs, headbutts, and perhaps even fewer disdainful looks at your plate at mealtimes.