Chocolate: Toxic to both cats and dogs, the ingredients theobromine and caffeine can have a devastating effect on their entire bodies. Chocolate is one of the deadliest substances for cats to consume. Chocolate poisoning can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, and seizures. If you see any of these symptoms, take your dog to the vet immediately. There are treatments for chocolate poisoning. Inducing vomiting is sometimes recommended to purge the system of the toxins.
Wild Mushrooms: While the small, store-bought mushrooms will have no effect, these fungi can sometimes contain neurotoxins which causes multiple dangerous symptoms including toxic shock, kidney problems, and even death. A more severe mushroom poisoning symptom is hallucinations. Any behavior that makes a cat seem “high”, such as excessive saliva and uneven walking, means that you need to get to the vet ASAP.
Grapes/Raisins: This is a relatively recent discovery. Although the studies were carried out with dogs, it is believes that cats would show the same symptoms, but since cats are picky eaters, they may not even go after grapes. Just keep an eye out if your cat actually does ingest grapes or raisin, and make sure, if you see symptoms, to consult your veterinarian.
Raw Eggs: In years past, cats and dogs would eat the eggs right out of the nest. However, times have changed. They haven’t had the same access to raw eggs, which means that raw eggs are no longer harmless. Not to mention that the shell, once fragmented, can hurt their mouths. Raw Eggs contain an enzyme, avidin, which can decrease the levels of several vitamins in cats’ bodies. In addition, raw eggs can contain Salmonella.
Raw Fish: Raw fish, like raw eggs, have bacteria that can lead to food poisoning. Consuming uncooked fish could result in a B-vitamin deficiency, or thiamine. This can escalate into loss of appetite, seizures, and, in a worst-case scenario, death, especially when fed regularly. A lack of thiamine can cause serious neurological problems and lead to convulsions and coma. In addition, Tuna, raw or cooked, and either prepared for cats or humans, can be harmful, especially when there is a serving every day.
Milk: Despite the common misconception, milk is not good for cats. Like most mammals, after entering adulthood, cats become lactose intolerant. Also, milk is high in calories for cats, and can lead to obesity. Other side-effects are diarrhea, upset stomachs, cramps, and gas.
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