Can cats eat baby food?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Onion and garlic powder are common and toxic to cats; read the label carefully first.
Why
Plain meat baby food is sometimes used for sick cats, but many contain toxic onion or garlic.
Can cats eat baby food, and why?
Plain meat baby food is sometimes used for sick cats, but many contain toxic onion or garlic. Onion and garlic powder are common and toxic to cats; read the label carefully first.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
Warning — what to watch for
Onion and garlic powder are common and toxic to cats; read the label carefully first.
If your cat has eaten baby food, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
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Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat baby food?
Caution. Plain meat baby food is sometimes used for sick cats, but many contain toxic onion or garlic.
What happens if my cat eats baby food?
Onion and garlic powder are common and toxic to cats; read the label carefully first. If your cat has eaten baby food, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is baby food poisonous to cats?
Caution. Plain meat baby food is sometimes used for sick cats, but many contain toxic onion or garlic.
Check baby food for another pet