Human Foods That are Safe for Both Dogs and Cats
We love our pets, and sometimes we are tempted to feed them the scraps of the delicious food we eat. Are you wondering what human foods can cats and dogs eat, then here’s a handy list for you.
- Fruits
Some fruits such as apple, banana, mango, watermelon, blueberries, and pear are safe for your pets. However, there are a few fruits, such as cherries, that are toxic for both cats and dogs. Grapes and raisins, too, can cause kidney damage. Steer clear of citrus fruits, such as lemons, grapefruit, and lime, as they can result in an upset stomach. Fruits have a high amount of sugar and should be given in moderation to overweight or diabetic pets. Ensure that the fruit you give your pet is properly washed and all inedible skins, rinds, seeds, and pits are removed. - Vegetables
If you make homemade pet food, knowing what human foods can cats and dogs eat is essential. Avoiding onions are garlic in your recipe might be a good idea as they are toxic in both cooked and raw. Vegetables such as cucumber, carrots, peas, spinach, sweet potato, and celery are safe for your pet. Cruciferous vegetables, such as brussels sprouts and cauliflower, should be steamed or boiled, as this makes them easier to digest. If you are a cat owner, pureeing the vegetables would make it more enjoyable for your pet. - Fish
Fish such as salmon are safe to give your pet. It is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon is also used as an ingredient in commercial cat food. However, ensure that you do not give your pet, especially your cat, raw fish as it can affect the way its body absorbs nutrients. - Pasta and rice
When considering what human foods can cats and dogs eat, you can list pasta and rice. You can opt for brown rice as a healthier option. You can mix some with regular dog food to give it a different taste for your pet. - Chicken
Both cats and dogs enjoy meat, and chicken is a good option as it is lean and a rich source of protein. Ensure that the meat is thoroughly cooked before giving it to your pet. Also, you can remove the fatty skin. You can incorporate bite-sized chicken pieces or ground chicken into your pet food recipes. You can also opt for turkey instead of chicken. - Bread
This is another to add to the list of what human foods can cats and dogs eat. Whole-wheat bread is a great source of protein and fiber. Cats love snacking on bread. However, you should avoid salted pretzels, which can increase your pet’s thirst
Now that we have answered the question of what human foods cats and dogs can eat, you can safely give them to your pet once in a while.