Why cats should not have it
A cat is a true carnivore. It needs more protein than a dog, and nutrients its body cannot make enough of on its own: taurine, arachidonic acid and vitamin A. Dog food is made for a dog's needs, so it can contain too little of these.
A stolen bite from the dog's bowl is not dangerous. But if a cat eats dog food instead of its own for a long time, a lack of taurine can harm the heart and the eyes, and the cat can lose weight. If your cat has not eaten for a day or more, is losing weight, vomits or has diarrhoea, contact a vet.
What to watch out for
- On dog food for a long time, a cat can run short of taurine, which can harm the heart and the eyes.
- Getting less protein than it needs, a cat can lose weight and muscle.
- A sudden change of food can cause vomiting or diarrhoea.
- If your cat has not eaten for a day or more, is losing weight or its coat becomes unkempt, contact a vet.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.
What to give instead
Foods that are safer to give.
- Chicken Yes, plain cooked chicken without bones, skin or seasoning is one of the best treats you can give a cat. Safe
- Beef Yes, well-cooked lean beef without seasoning is a good treat for a cat; just trim off the fat and take out any bones. Safe
- Eggs Yes, a well-cooked egg, boiled or cooked without fat, is fine for a cat, but it is better not to give a raw egg. Safe