What Should I Feed My Cat If I Don’t Have Cat Food?
If you’re out of cat food, don’t panic! You can temporarily feed your cat plain, cooked chicken, turkey, fish, or beef, supplemented with cooked rice or plain pasta, ensuring it’s a nutritionally short-term solution and not a replacement for balanced feline nutrition.
Understanding Feline Nutritional Needs
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are designed to thrive on a diet primarily consisting of animal protein. Unlike humans or dogs, they can’t efficiently digest plant-based matter and require specific nutrients found mainly in meat, such as taurine, which is crucial for heart health and vision. What should I feed my cat if I don’t have cat food? Understanding this fundamental need is the first step in finding a suitable temporary alternative.
Safe Human Foods for Cats (in a Pinch)
While commercial cat food is formulated to meet all of a cat’s nutritional requirements, there are human foods you can safely offer in small quantities as a temporary measure. The goal is to provide protein and hydration until you can replenish your cat food supply.
- Cooked Meat: Plain, cooked chicken, turkey, lean beef, or fish (like salmon or tuna – but without bones!) are excellent protein sources. Ensure the meat is unseasoned, without added salt, garlic, onion, or other spices, as these can be toxic to cats. Remove skin and bones.
- Cooked Eggs: Scrambled or hard-boiled eggs are another good source of protein and are generally well-tolerated by cats. Again, avoid adding any seasonings.
- Cooked Fish: As mentioned above, cooked fish like salmon, tuna, or cod are acceptable in small amounts. Avoid fish high in mercury and always remove bones meticulously.
- Plain Cooked Grains: While cats don’t require grains, small amounts of cooked white rice or plain pasta can provide carbohydrates for energy.
- Certain Vegetables (Cooked): A small amount of steamed or boiled green beans, carrots, or pumpkin (unsweetened) can be offered, but these should make up a very small portion of the meal.
Foods to Absolutely Avoid
Some human foods are toxic to cats and should never be offered, even in small quantities. Knowing what not to feed your cat is as important as knowing what should I feed my cat if I don’t have cat food?
- Chocolate: Highly toxic to cats and dogs.
- Onions and Garlic: Can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
- Grapes and Raisins: Can cause kidney failure.
- Avocado: Contains persin, which can be toxic to cats.
- Raw Meat or Fish: Can contain harmful bacteria, like Salmonella and E. coli.
- Dairy Products: While many cats enjoy milk, most are lactose intolerant and dairy can cause digestive upset.
- Alcohol: Toxic to cats.
- Caffeine: Can be fatal to cats.
- Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener): Extremely toxic.
Preparing a Temporary Cat Meal
When preparing a temporary meal, focus on providing a safe and palatable option.
- Choose a protein source: Cooked chicken, turkey, or fish are ideal.
- Ensure it’s plain: No seasonings, sauces, or additives.
- Cut into small, manageable pieces: To prevent choking.
- Mix with a small amount of cooked grain (optional): Rice or pasta can add some bulk.
- Offer fresh water: Hydration is crucial.
- Monitor your cat’s reaction: If your cat refuses to eat or shows signs of digestive upset, discontinue the temporary food and seek veterinary advice.
Transitioning Back to Regular Cat Food
Once you have restocked your cat food supply, gradually transition your cat back to their regular diet. This will help prevent digestive upset. Mix a small amount of the new cat food with the temporary food, gradually increasing the amount of cat food over a few days.
Long-Term Considerations
Remember, human food is not a substitute for commercial cat food in the long run. Cats require specific nutrients that are carefully balanced in commercially prepared foods. What should I feed my cat if I don’t have cat food? Only ever be a short-term solution to avoid health problems. Consistently feeding your cat human food can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it okay to feed my cat canned tuna intended for human consumption?
While canned tuna can be a temporary source of protein, it’s not a balanced diet for cats. It lacks taurine and other essential nutrients. Furthermore, some tuna can be high in mercury, which can be harmful in large quantities. Only offer canned tuna in water (not oil) and as an occasional treat, not a primary food source.
My cat loves milk. Can I give it to her if I’m out of cat food?
Most adult cats are lactose intolerant. Giving them milk can cause diarrhea and other digestive problems. It’s best to avoid dairy altogether, especially when you need a safe and easily digestible alternative to cat food. Offer fresh water instead.
Can I give my cat raw meat if I’m out of cat food?
While a properly balanced raw food diet can be healthy for cats, it’s crucial to do thorough research and prepare it carefully to avoid bacterial contamination. Never give your cat raw meat you wouldn’t eat yourself. Improper handling can lead to Salmonella, E. coli, and other infections. When you’re asking What should I feed my cat if I don’t have cat food? This is not a great option unless you are extremely knowledgeable.
My cat is a picky eater. What if she refuses the alternative foods?
If your cat is a picky eater, try offering a variety of the safe options listed above. Warm the food slightly to enhance its aroma. If your cat still refuses to eat, contact your veterinarian. It’s important to ensure your cat is eating something to avoid hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), a serious condition that can occur in cats that go without food for even a short period.
How long can my cat go without eating before it becomes a serious problem?
Cats should not go more than 24-48 hours without eating. After this time, they are at risk of developing hepatic lipidosis. If your cat hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Can I use baby food as a temporary food for my cat?
Plain meat-based baby food (chicken, turkey, or lamb) without onion or garlic powder can be used as a temporary option. Ensure it doesn’t contain any added ingredients that are toxic to cats. Always check the label carefully.
What about wet cat food vs. dry cat food? Does it matter in this situation?
When considering What should I feed my cat if I don’t have cat food?, the main focus is on nutritional safety and providing some sustenance. Wet food is generally preferred as it provides more hydration. However, if you only have access to suitable dry human food, it’s better than nothing. Always provide plenty of fresh water.
Is it okay to add supplements to the temporary food, like taurine?
Adding taurine to a single temporary meal is unlikely to provide any significant benefit. However, if you anticipate using alternative foods for more than a day or two, consulting with a veterinarian about appropriate supplementation is advisable. However, it’s much better to purchase appropriate cat food.
My cat has diabetes. What alternatives are safe for him/her?
If your cat has diabetes, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent diet to regulate blood sugar levels. Contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance on appropriate alternative foods. They may recommend a specific prescription diet or a combination of safe human foods tailored to your cat’s needs.
What if my cat has allergies or food sensitivities?
If your cat has known allergies or food sensitivities, stick to foods that you know are safe for them. When in doubt, consult with your veterinarian before offering any new foods. Avoid any ingredients that have triggered allergic reactions in the past.
How much of the temporary food should I give my cat?
Offer your cat a portion similar to their usual meal size. Monitor their appetite and adjust the amount accordingly. Don’t force your cat to eat if they’re not interested.
What if I can’t get to the store to buy cat food?
If you are unable to get to the store to purchase cat food, consider ordering online for delivery. In the meantime, explore the safe alternatives discussed earlier. If you have a neighbor or friend who can lend you some cat food, that is also a good option.