We’ve all been there: slicing up a piece of fruit or prepping dinner when those curious cat eyes appear, begging for a bite. It’s tempting to share, but not everything on your plate is safe for your cat.
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need meat to survive and have little nutritional need for carbs like fruits or veggies. Their ideal diet is high in protein and low in carbs, just like what they’d hunt in the wild.
Still, it’s only natural to want to treat them now and then.
So, we’re breaking it down, rapid-fire style. Before you 'accidentally' drop a piece of cheese on the floor for your cat, here’s a simple list of human foods that are nos and those that are gos!
What cats can eat
Can cats eat cheese? Yes.
Yes, cats can eat cheese, but only in small amounts.
Most cats are lactose intolerant, so dairy can upset their stomach. A tiny piece of cheese now and then might be fine, but it’s not a necessary or particularly healthy treat. Soft cheeses, especially, are high in fat and salt, which isn’t ideal for cats.
If your cat seems to love cheese, think of it more as a rare indulgence than a regular snack!
Can cats eat strawberries? Yes.
Yes, cats can eat strawberries in small amounts.
Strawberries aren’t toxic to cats, but they’re not especially nutritious for them either.
They’re packed with sugar and fibre – great for humans, not so great for cats who don’t digest sugar well.
If your cat is curious, offer a small piece, but don’t expect it to be a hit. Most cats turn their nose up at fruit!
Can cats eat watermelon? Yes.
Yes, cats can eat watermelon, without the seeds or rind.
Watermelon is safe and hydrating, making it a fun summertime treat. Just be sure to remove the rind and seeds, which can pose a choking hazard or upset the digestive tract. Like all fruits, keep portions tiny to avoid sugar overload.
Can cats eat blueberries? Yes.
Yes, cats can eat blueberries in moderation.
These little berries are safe and even offer some antioxidants. But keep servings small. Cats don’t need fruit in their diet, and too much can cause tummy trouble.
A couple of blueberries now and then can be a fun way to mix up treat time if your cat’s into it.
Always check the ingredients on cat treats. The shorter the list, the better. Look for real meat as the first ingredient and skip anything with artificial colours, flavours or vague terms like “meat by-products.”
Can cats eat rice? Yes.
Yes, cats can eat cooked rice when it’s plain and in small quantities.
Rice is sometimes used in commercial cat food and can help with digestive issues. But it doesn’t offer much in terms of nutrition, especially for a carnivore.
Think of it as filler: helpful in certain cases but not something your cat needs every day.
Can cats eat corn? Yes.
Yes, cats can eat cooked corn in small amounts.
Corn is a common filler in many cat foods.
While it’s not toxic, it’s not particularly beneficial either. A small amount won’t hurt, but meat should always be the star of your cat’s diet.
Avoid feeding it straight from the cob to prevent choking.
Can cats eat ham? Yes.
Yes, cats can eat small amounts of plain ham.
Ham is salty, processed and often contains preservatives, which makes it less than ideal for cats. A tiny bit of unseasoned, cooked ham is okay as a treat, but don’t make it a habit. Too much salt can strain your cat’s kidneys over time.
Stick to plain, lean cuts if offering a bite.
When offering your cat a taste of human food, keep it plain and simple. Skip the seasonings, sauces and oils. Even a sprinkle of garlic or onion powder can be dangerous for cats.
Can cats eat bananas? Yes.
Yes, cats can eat bananas, in small amounts.
Bananas aren’t toxic, but they are sugary and starchy. A tiny slice won’t hurt, but it’s best kept as a rare treat rather than a regular snack.
Don’t be surprised, though, if your cat isn’t interested. They’re more likely to bat it off the counter than eat it.
Can cats eat bread? Yes.
Yes, cats can eat small pieces of plain bread.
Bread isn’t toxic, but it doesn’t do much for your cat nutritionally. As a one-off, it’s fine, but skip anything with toppings, spices, garlic, or raisins.
Too much bread could contribute to weight gain and digestive issues.
Can cats eat raw chicken? No.
No, cats should not eat raw chicken unless it’s vet approved.
Raw chicken can carry bacteria like Salmonella or Campylobacter, which are risky for cats and humans alike. If you’re considering a raw diet, it must be balanced, properly stored, and approved by your vet.
Otherwise, stick to cooked chicken with no seasoning.
Can cats eat avocado? No.
No, cats should avoid eating avocado.
Avocado contains a substance called persin, which isn’t highly toxic to cats but can cause stomach upset. And the skin and pit are especially unsafe, posing choking risks.
Best to keep guac night feline-free.
How many calories does a cat need?
Most adult cats need around 200 to 250 calories a day – which is not much, considering how dramatic they can be about mealtimes.
But calorie needs can vary depending on their age, size, lifestyle and whether they’re desexed.
Indoor cats and seniors usually need fewer, while kittens and outdoor adventurers burn through more.
It doesn’t take much to tip the scales, so keeping portions in check is key. Not sure how much is just right? Start with the feeding guide on their food, and check in with your vet if you’re unsure.
How to build a balanced cat diet
While some of these human foods are safe for cats in small amounts, they should never replace a balanced, species-appropriate diet. Cats need:
- Animal-based proteins as their primary fuel source
- Taurine, an essential amino acid found only in meat
- Minimal carbohydrates, as their digestive systems aren’t built for grains or sugary snacks
- Hydration, ideally from wet food or water-rich ingredients
Even treats should be given in moderation. The general rule of thumb is no more than 10% of their daily intake.
When in doubt, stick to specially formulated cat foods that meet AAFCO or veterinary guidelines. Or check with your vet before introducing new foods.
Looking for the right food for your cat? Explore our full range of cat food to find something that suits their taste.