What Ingredients Should You Avoid In Homemade Cat Food?

Homemade cat food is becoming more popular as pet parents look for fresher, cleaner ingredients. But while preparing meals at home can offer benefits, it also comes with risks—especially when harmful or nutritionally imbalanced ingredients are used. Cats have very specific dietary needs, so knowing what not to include is just as important as knowing what to add.

1. Onions, Garlic & Chives

These ingredients may add flavor to human meals, but they are toxic to cats, even in small amounts. They can damage red blood cells and cause anemia. This includes powdered or cooked forms.

2. Grapes & Raisins

Even tiny amounts can lead to acute kidney failure. They should never be used in any pet recipe.

3. Chocolate, Caffeine, and Alcohol

These are dangerous to all pets, but cats are especially sensitive. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can quickly become life-threatening.

4. Bones (Especially Cooked)

Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking, internal injuries, or painful blockages. Raw bones can also carry bacterial risks if not handled properly.

5. Raw Eggs

Some people add them for protein, but raw eggs may contain salmonella and also a compound called avidin, which interferes with vitamin absorption.

6. Excess Fat or Seasonings

Cats cannot tolerate heavy fats, butter, oils, salt, or spices. These can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and long-term health issues like pancreatitis.

7. Dog Food Ingredients

Cats are obligate carnivores and require nutrients like taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A—nutrients often lacking in dog food–style recipes. Never use dog-recipe ingredients for cats.

8. Too Many Carbohydrates

Cats cannot properly process a high-carb diet. Avoid fillers like cornmeal, bread, pasta, or starchy vegetables. Their meals should be high in animal protein with minimal carbs.