We naturally want to give our pets everything they desire, but the reality of doing so can have dire consequences. Learn here about five foods that can be lethal to cats.

Not everyone knows it, but there are some very common foods that should never be given to our pets. Specific pet food is made with this in mind, ensuring our four-legged fur friends receive the right kinds of foods for their digestive systems.

Our rule of thumb when giving treats to our pets - if you don't know whether or not the food you want to give them is harmful, even if it seems utterly harmless, then consider it a no-go until you find out from a reputable source i.e. your vet.

With that in mind, let's look at five everyday food items that can be fatal to our cats.

1. Chocolate

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Cats, like dogs, are extremely sensitive to the theobromine contained in chocolate. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for your pet. It will cause diarrhea, vomiting, convulsions and in some cases infarctus.

2. Coffee and tea

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These hot beverages are very useful for waking us up, but can put cats to sleep for ever. Indeed, caffeine (contained in both coffee and tea) is a poison and only about 10 spoons of it could kill a cat. A poisoned cat will have diarrhea, will vomit and shake. Pay attention to sodas that contain caffeine as well.

3. Onions and garlic

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As it is for dogs, onions, garlic, shallots and leeks are extremely toxic for cats. No matter if your cat eats a lot of them in one go or a little bit regularly. Indeed, these foods will destroy red blood cells, supposed to carry oxygen to the heart. If you notice your pet breathing loudly and with difficulty, and if their urine turns brownish, check out with your vet because they may be ill. Make sure not to store your onions and garlic somewhere your cat can go.

4. Avocado

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If your cat ingests avocado, they will firstly have digestive disorders (diarrhea, vomiting, appetite loss). Then, they might have dangerous cardiovascular troubles. You must know that avocado is wholly toxic: plant, leaves, fruit, skin and stone. Make sure your cat can't have contact with an avocado tree.

5. Fruits containing stones or pips

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Apricot, apples, pears... stones and pips contain cyanide, very toxic for cats and for us as well. This substance will provoke digestive disorders and tachycardia that can lead to a coma or death. You also should be aware that grapes and raisins cause renal failure in cats.

Did you know these foods could harm your cat?

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