Can Cats Eat Tuna, Cheese, Eggs and Other Human Foods?

Begging at the dinner table is hard to resist — but can cats eat human food safely? Some foods are fine in moderation; others are never worth the risk.

Generally safe in small amounts

• Plain cooked chicken or turkey (no seasoning, bones, or skin fat)
• Plain cooked egg
• Small amounts of plain cooked fish
• Commercial cat treats designed for cats

Treat with caution

• Tuna — mercury and nutritional imbalance if fed often
• Cheese — most cats are lactose intolerant. Is milk bad for cats?
• Deli meats — high salt and seasonings

Never feed these

Chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, alcohol, xylitol, and raw dough top the never list. See 25 human foods cats should never eat for the complete guide.

When treats become a problem

Treats should be less than 10% of daily calories. Overfeeding human food causes obesity, nutrient deficiencies, and pancreatitis. When unsure, scan first.