Harmful Foods Cats Should Avoid Eating in the US 2025

Why Certain Foods Can Be Harmful to Cats

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet must primarily consist of meat. Unlike humans, cats lack certain enzymes needed to process some common human foods and may have adverse reactions to ingredients like onions, garlic, or artificial sweeteners. Additionally, cats’ small size and unique metabolism can make them more sensitive to toxins present in various foods.

Some harmful foods cause immediate symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, while others may affect internal organs or the nervous system before outward signs appear. Prompt recognition and veterinary care are important if a cat consumes a potentially dangerous substance.

Foods to Avoid Giving to Cats

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic, in any form—raw, cooked, powder, or supplement—contain thiosulfate, which cats cannot properly metabolize. This compound may damage red blood cells (hemolytic anemia), leading to weakness, lethargy, pale gums, and other health issues. Gastrointestinal symptoms like gas, vomiting, and diarrhea are also possible. Garlic pills marketed as natural flea treatments also pose a risk.

Chocolate and Caffeine-Containing Foods

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are stimulants that can be toxic to cats. Dark and baking chocolates have higher concentrations and may cause nervous system effects, tremors, seizures, or heart irregularities. Coffee grounds and beans present similar caffeine-related risks. Veterinary evaluation is advised if ingestion occurs.

Grapes and Raisins

Though primarily documented as toxic to dogs, grapes and raisins are best avoided in cats due to potential risks of kidney damage that are not fully understood.

Xylitol-Containing Products

Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in sugar-free gums, peanut butter, and some diet products. While its toxicity in cats is not definitively established, there is a suspected risk of blood sugar and liver effects. It is recommended to keep all xylitol-containing products away from cats.

Raw Eggs and Raw Fish

Raw eggs may carry salmonella or other pathogens that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Raw fish, especially if fed frequently, may lead to thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency, which can cause neurological signs such as seizures and loss of balance. Cooking these foods helps reduce these risks.

Bones

Bones can break into sharp pieces that might cause mouth injuries, intestinal punctures, blockages, or constipation. There is also a risk of bacterial contamination.

Alcohol

Ethanol in alcoholic beverages is poisonous to cats; even small amounts may cause behavioral changes, breathing difficulties, and potentially fatal heart or lung effects.

Avocado Components

Small amounts of fresh avocado flesh are generally considered safe, but avocado leaves, bark, seeds, and unripe parts contain persin, a compound that can be toxic to cats. Symptoms may include respiratory issues and fluid accumulation in the chest or abdomen.

Fatty and Rich Human Foods

High-fat foods can provoke pancreatitis—inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms may include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, lethargy, and appetite loss. Pancreatitis requires veterinary attention.

Important Risk in 2025: H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus

In 2025, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an update regarding the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus (H5N1), recognized as a hazard in raw or unpasteurized animal-derived products like poultry, milk, and eggs. This virus can cause severe illness in cats that consume contaminated uncooked foods.

Food manufacturers are required to include H5N1 as a hazard in safety plans and apply processes such as pasteurization or cooking to inactivate the virus. Pet owners should avoid feeding raw or unpasteurized animal products to cats to reduce the risk of infection.

Other Foods and Substances to Be Careful With

• Baking soda and baking powder: Large quantities may affect electrolyte balance and heart function.
• Potato peels (raw or green): Contain solanine, which can cause vomiting and disorientation.
• Nutmeg: Can be neurotoxic in small amounts, causing tremors and seizures.
• Plastic wrappers and string ties: May be ingested accidentally, causing intestinal blockages that require surgery.
• Dough with yeast: Can expand and ferment in the stomach, leading to gas buildup and possible alcohol intoxication.

Guidance on Feeding Cats in 2025

Cats generally do well on commercially formulated cat foods that meet nutritional standards such as those established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Human foods are usually unnecessary and may carry risks. While some human foods are non-toxic in small amounts, treats should be safe and given sparingly.

Recommendations include:

• Providing fresh water at all times.
• Avoiding raw or unpasteurized products.
• Consulting a veterinarian before introducing new foods.
• Keeping harmful foods and substances out of reach.

Cats are often curious about human foods, but knowing which items to avoid helps protect their health.

Summary

In 2025, awareness of foods potentially harmful to cats remains important for pet owners. Foods such as onions, garlic, chocolate, caffeine, xylitol-containing products, raw eggs, bones, alcohol, and fatty leftovers can pose health risks. The FDA’s recent alert about H5N1 avian influenza highlights the need to avoid raw or unpasteurized animal products. Understanding these risks supports your cat’s well-being.

If you believe your cat has ingested something harmful, promptly contacting a veterinarian or a pet poison helpline is recommended.

Sources

• Petplace: The Ultimate Guide to What Cats Can’t Eat
• FDA: Cat and Dog Food Manufacturers Required to Consider H5N1 in Food Safety Plans (2025)
• Pets Best: Foods Cats Can’t Eat 

Disclaimer: All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only. The information and materials contained in these pages and the terms, conditions and descriptions that appear, are subject to change without notice.