It’s well-known that cats and dogs are not designed to eat many human foods. Not only can certain human foods make them obese, but they may also contribute to health conditions like arthritis, diabetes mellitus, digestive issues, or result in an allergic reaction or pet toxicity. In this article we’ll explore some of the safe human foods for cats and dogs and their many health benefits:
1.Skinless chicken
A small portion of boiled, skinless unseasoned chicken for your dog or cat is an excellent source of lean protein, sodium, and fat. Chicken is ideal when prepared “naked” as possible and free of oils or seasonings since those additions might upset your dog or cat’s stomach. Chicken can be fed to pets at least once or twice a week. Ensure that the chicken is boiled for at least 10 minutes before feeding. Also never feed pets chicken with bones as these may splinter leading to an intestinal injury or choking hazard. Always avoid giving your cat or dog raw chicken, as it may carry dangerous bacteria that may result in severe sickness.
2.Eggs
Dogs and cats can eat cooked eggs without any problem. In fact, eggs offer beneficial nutrients, including plenty of protein, vitamins A, B, D, and E, minerals, omega-3 fat, and antioxidants. The whole egg (yolk and white) can be fed to your pet. Just keep in mind that eggs should always be cooked before given to pets—scrambled or hard boiled—eggs should be served plain without oil, butter, salt, seasoning, or spices, or other additives. As with chicken, uncooked eggs can carry foodborne bacteria and make your pet sick.
3.Fish
Fatty fish, like salmon and tuna can be essential sources of protein for your dog or cat. They also contain vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids that protect joint health, and make nails and coats sleek and shiny. Fish should always be cooked to prevent any food bacteria from making pets sick. Also, raw-fish contains an enzyme called thiaminase that destroys thiamine, an essential B vitamin component in feline diets. Always ensure fish is cooked, unseasoned, and minus the bones and skin. Any canned tuna served to cats should be unsalted.
4.Cucumber
Cucumber is a vegetable that cats and dogs enjoy and can easily digest. This crispy veggie offers a good source of water for hydration and potassium, which protects cats’ and dogs’ eyesight, kidney, liver, and gallbladder function, regulates blood pressure, prevents muscle cramps and spasms, aids in smooth muscle contractions in the intestines and regulates the flow of bile to help to maintain healthy gastrointestinal pH levels while boosting overall immune health. Just be sure to cut cucumber into small chewable pieces to avoid a choking hazard.
5.Broccoli
Dogs and cats may be able to digest raw and cooked broccoli with no seasonings. It is one of the top dog-safe human foods, because it’s rich in vitamin C, A, K, fiber, calcium, and potassium, all of which protect a dog’s bone density. However, keep in mind that broccoli should always be fed as a treat in small quantities, especially because the florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause gastric irritation. For this reason any cruciferous veggies—cauliflower or broccoli, cauliflower—can be lightly steamed and left unseasoned to be a digestive-friendly snack.
