Cats metabolise many substances differently from dogs — some common household items are uniquely deadly to cats. Full breed-specific risk guides included.
True lilies (Lilium/Hemerocallis) cause acute kidney failure in cats. Any part of the plant is lethal — even the pollen.
LETHALCats lack the liver enzyme to break down Tylenol. A single regular-strength tablet can be fatal.
LETHALFound in many dog flea treatments. Applying dog-labelled permethrin products to cats is frequently fatal.
LETHALTea tree, eucalyptus, clove and many other oils are highly toxic to cats via skin contact or diffusers.
HIGH RISKAlliums destroy red blood cells in cats, causing haemolytic anaemia. Powdered forms are most dangerous.
HIGH RISKTheobromine and caffeine in chocolate are toxic to cats, though cats rarely seek it out.
HIGH RISKThe artificial sweetener found in sugar-free products is toxic to cats though less studied than in dogs.
HIGH RISKEven a single Advil tablet causes severe gastrointestinal and kidney damage in cats.
HIGH RISKGrapes and raisins are potentially toxic to cats, though the mechanism is less studied than in dogs.
CAUTIONAnticoagulant rodenticides cause fatal internal bleeding. Cats can be exposed through eating poisoned rodents.
HIGH RISKEthylene glycol tastes sweet and is highly attractive to cats. Causes fatal kidney failure within 24–72 hours.
LETHALCats metabolise aspirin extremely slowly. One baby aspirin every other day can cause serious toxicity.
HIGH RISKNo — theobromine and caffeine are toxic even in small amounts.
NOAll forms — raw, cooked, powdered — are toxic to cats.
NOPotentially toxic. Avoid grapes and raisins entirely.
NOOccasional plain tuna is fine; regular feeding causes nutritional deficiencies.
LIMITCooked eggs are a safe protein source. Raw eggs carry salmonella risk.
COOKED ONLYMost adult cats are lactose intolerant. Small amounts rarely cause serious issues.
LIMITNever — acetaminophen is one of the most deadly cat toxins.
NEVEROnly under veterinary guidance. Dosing errors are common.
VET ONLYCats metabolise aspirin very slowly — never give without vet supervision.
VET ONLYSmall doses may be safe but many products contain xylitol. Check ingredients.
CAUTION