Use Caution with Cats

This is by no means a list of everything on the planet that’s bad for cats. But it’s a few of the things that should be avoided by themselves or as an ingredient in something else.

Alpha Lipoic Acid
Also referred to as lipoic acid. It’s an antioxidant that increases production of glutathione and can cause gastrointestinal distress and low blood sugar in cats.

Chocolate
This contains the alkaloid theobromine which is toxic to cats. It also contains caffeine and may contain sugar.

Dairy
Dairy products include milk, cream, butter, cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, whey, sour cream, kefir, casein, and ice cream. Milk is a hormonal growth fluid produced by a mother for her young of the same species. Cats do not “milk” cows (or mice) and, after weaning, have no need for dairy products. A weaned cat isn’t equipped with the enzymes needed to digest the protein and sugar in dairy products. Plus, studies with cats show that casein (a protein in milk) interferes with the absorption of other nutrients.

Drugs
No, not all drugs of course. But there are many drugs that are safe (relatively speaking) for other animals that are very harmful to cats. Examples include aspirin, acetaminophen, antihistamines, decongestants, ibuprofen, NSAIDs, salicylates, and sodium phosphate enemas. Always be certain that any drug you are considering is specifically safe for cats. And always check the drug insert or the internet for possible side effects and contraindications.

Essential Oils
Cats are very sensitive to the potent essential oils that may be used around other animals, including yourself. If you wish to use aromatherapy for your cats, look into the more dilute hydrosols. Use caution with cleaning products that contain essential oils. Also make certain your cat doesn’t get into potpourri.

Grapes and Raisins
These are tricky because no one is certain yet why there have been recent reports of toxicity due to grape and raisin ingestion. Until we know more, they’re best avoided.

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