Cats and dogs are often treated like family members, and it’s not uncommon to want to share our food with them. But it’s important to remember that their digestive systems differ from ours, and what might be safe for us to eat could make them very sick, causing severe gastrointestinal distress, organ damage, or even death. However, a few exceptions exist. Here are some safe human foods that you can share with your furry friends:
1. Broccoli
Broccoli is a healthy vegetable that is safe for both cats and dogs to eat. It is a good source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and it also contains calcium and iron. You should steam or lightly boil it before feeding it to your pet; just be sure not to overcook it, as this can make it hard for your pet to digest. Instead, cook it until it is crisp-tender. You should also remove the stems and florets before cooking this vegetable, as these parts can also be hard for your pet to digest.
2. Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein and other nutrients, and they can be safely fed to cats and dogs. However, be sure to cook them first, by scrambling or hard-boiling, as they contain harmful bacteria when raw. Some pets may have an allergy, so it’s always best to introduce new foods, such as eggs, slowly and watch for any signs of a reaction. If your pet does have an allergic reaction, stop feeding them the allergen immediately and consult your veterinarian.
3. Fish
Fish is a healthy protein option for cats and dogs, but there are some things to keep in mind before feeding it to your pet. First, avoid giving them raw products, as they may contain harmful bacteria. Second, some fishes contain high levels of mercury, which can be toxic to pets. Some safe-when-cooked options for pets include tuna, salmon, and whitefish. Additionally, be sure to remove any bones before feeding fish to your pet, as they can cause choking or gastrointestinal problems. Cook the fish thoroughly by baking, broiling, or grilling it before chopping it into small pieces. However, avoid adding spices or seasoning, as they could upset your pet’s stomach.
4. Cucumber
Cucumbers are a healthy, low-calorie treat that can be fed to both cats and dogs. They are a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. You should remove the seeds and peel them before feeding them to your pet, as the skin and seeds can be hard to digest. You can slice the vegetable into thin pieces or chop it into small cubes. Some pets may not be interested in cucumbers, so you may need to mix them with other foods or add a little water to make them more appealing.
5. Skinless, boneless chicken
Skinless chicken is a healthy, low-fat source of protein that is safe for both cats and dogs to eat. Since chicken is so lean, it’s a particularly good option for pets who are overweight or have digestive issues. Just be sure to remove any bones, as they can splinter and cause choking or gastrointestinal problems. To prepare chicken for your pet, cook it until it is cooked through and then chop or shred it into small pieces. Also, remove any fatty skin or visible fat before feeding it to your pet. This will help prevent pancreatitis, a severe health issue for cats and dogs.