Written by

Tara Farmer

June 9, 2025

Edited by

Tamatha Hazen

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

What human foods can cats eat?

As cat owners, we often wonder if we can share our food with our furry companions. While cats are primarily carnivores with specific dietary needs, certain human foods can be safe as occasional treats. In this guide, we'll explore what cats can eat, what foods they should avoid, and how to introduce new foods safely.

Foods safe for cats

While your cat's primary diet should consist of quality commercial cat food, occasionally sharing certain human foods can be a special treat. The following foods can be offered in small amounts as supplements to their regular diet, but should never replace properly formulated cat food that meets all their nutritional requirements.

Cooked lean meats

Cooked chicken, turkey, and lean beef provide high-quality protein for cats. These meats should be completely plain—without salt, seasonings, or sauces. Always remove the skin, bones, and any excess fat before serving.

Cooked fish

Cooked fish, such as salmon and tuna, provides omega-3 fatty acids and protein. However, fish should only be a small part of a cat's diet to avoid nutritional imbalances or mercury exposure. Limit fish treats to once or twice a week, and always remove the bones and serve plain, without salt or oil.

Cooked eggs

Cooked eggs can be a nutritious treat for cats. They contain protein and essential amino acids that support muscle development. Always serve eggs fully cooked to eliminate the risk of salmonella, and never use butter, oil, or seasonings.

Vegetables

While cats don't require veggies and some will turn their nose up to them, there are several vegetables safe for cats to enjoy as an occasional treat if it suits their fancy, including:

• Pumpkin: Plain pumpkin (no spices or sugar) can be great for digestion and hairball control.

• Carrots: Peeled and cooked carrots provide beta-carotene and fiber. Cut them into small pieces for easy chewing.

• Broccoli: Steamed or boiled broccoli is rich in antioxidants and fiber. Offer broccoli in small, bite-sized pieces.

• Green beans: Low in calories and high in fiber, green beans can help with weight management. Serve them steamed and unseasoned.

• Spinach: Spinach is safe in small amounts for most healthy cats. Avoid this one if your cat has urinary issues, as spinach contains oxalates.

Cat-friendly vegetables can add a boost of nutrition for your feline companion when prepared and served in appropriate amounts.

Fruits

Most cats don't naturally gravitate toward fruits due to their inability to taste sweetness. However, there are some fruits safe for cats (in small amounts) as an occasional treat if your cat shows interest, including:

• Bananas

• Blueberries

• Cantaloupe

• Pears

• Watermelon

Always wash fruit thoroughly, remove any skin and seeds, and cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces for your kitty.

Foods to avoid giving your cat

While some human foods are safe, many common foods can be toxic or harmful to cats. If you're a cat owner, make sure you are aware of all the foods cats should never eat, such as:

• Onions, garlic, chives, leeks, shallots

• Raw potatoes

• Tomato plants

• Avocados

• Grapes and raisins

• Mushrooms (many varieties)

• Raw/undercooked meat, fish, or eggs

• Dairy products

• Chocolate, coffee, or anything with caffeine

• Alcohol

• Xylitol (artificial sweetener)

• Dog food in large amounts

If you think your cat may have eaten something harmful, don't delay. Make note of what you suspect they ate and how much, then contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance.

Understanding your cat's dietary needs

Cats are carnivores, which means they thrive on a diet rich in animal proteins. Their bodies are designed to process meat efficiently, and plant-based foods should only make up a small portion of their diet. Commercial cat foods are formulated to meet all their nutritional needs, but you can safely share some human foods as occasional treats.

Most veterinarians recommend that commercial cat food should make up about 90% of your cat's diet. These foods are formulated to provide the complete nutrition cats need, including essential nutrients like taurine that cats cannot produce on their own.

How to introduce new foods

When introducing any new food to your cat's diet, start with a very small amount to see how they respond. Watch for signs of allergic reactions or digestive upset like vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in behavior.

• Always introduce one new food at a time so you can identify the cause if your cat has a negative reaction. Wait at least 24 to 48 hours before introducing another new food.

• Remember that treats, including safe human foods, should make up no more than 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake. Cats have small stomachs and don't need large portions.

When to consult your veterinarian

Always put your cat's health and well-being first. When in doubt about a food's safety for your cat, ask your vet before giving it to them. Every cat is different, and some may have health conditions that require dietary restrictions.

Additionally, if your cat shows any signs of illness after eating a new food, contact your veterinarian right away. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite could indicate a food sensitivity or toxicity.

What can kittens eat?

Kittens have delicate tummies and different nutritional needs than adult cats. From birth to about four weeks of age, kittens should consume only their mother's milk or a kitten milk replacer formula if the mother is not available.

Around 4 or 5 weeks, kittens begin the weaning process. During this time, they should be introduced to high-quality kitten food that's specifically formulated for growth. Kitten food has higher protein and fat content to support their rapid development.

Until they reach about one year of age, kittens should primarily eat commercially prepared kitten food. Keep the treats and human foods extremely limited, as their developing digestive systems are more sensitive than adult cats.