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Malcolm Downes

Nine foods and plants toxic to cats

Common on our tables and in our gardens, ingesting these deadly nine can cause severe illnes or death in your cat.

1. Onions, garlic, and leeks
All members of the allium family, onions, garlic, and leeks, are highly toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause serious damage to their red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cooking or dehydrating these foods doesn’t reduce their toxicity.

2, Chocolate
Like dogs, cats can suffer from chocolate poisoning. Theobromine, a substance found in chocolate, is toxic to cats and can lead to symptoms like vomiting, increased heart rate, seizures, and even death if consumed in large quantities.

3. Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages and foods containing alcohol, like some desserts, can have a severe impact on a cat’s liver and central nervous system. Symptoms of alcohol poisoning in cats include disorientation, vomiting, and even respiratory failure in severe cases.

4. Grapes and raisins
While the exact substance causing toxicity is not known, grapes and raisins are known to cause kidney failure in cats. Even small amounts can lead to sudden and severe kidney damage, with symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite.

5. Xylitol (Sugar Substitute)
Xylitol, a sweetener found in sugar-free gum, lollies, and some baked goods, is extremely toxic to cats. It can cause a rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (i.e. low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure.

6. Oleander 
Oleander is a beautiful yet highly toxic plant. Ingesting even a small amount can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and heart problems in cats, and in some cases, it can be fatal.

7. Lilies
Lilies are particularly dangerous to cats, with all parts of the plant, including the pollen, being toxic. Ingesting or even licking pollen can lead to kidney failure. Symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Some common lilies that are toxic to cats include Easter lilies, tiger lilies, and day lilies.

8.Sago palm
Though often seen as an ornamental plant in Australian gardens, the sago palm is extremely toxic to cats. Ingesting even a small amount can cause liver failure and death. Symptoms often appear within a few hours of ingestion and include vomiting, diarrhoea and jaundice.

9. Azaleas and rhododendrons
These popular garden plants contain grayanotoxins that can cause serious gastrointestinal distress in cats, leading to symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

There are other common human foods (for example and milk and cheese and raw meat and fish)  that are not recommended for cats but more on that in a future post.

For more information, check out:
RSPCA Australia – Toxic Plants for Cats
PetMD – Toxic Foods for Cats

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When should I bathe my cat?

If you’ve ever tried to give a cat a bath, you probably walked away with wet clothes, a few scratches, and the question: Do I really need to do this?

In most cases, the answer is no, at least, not regularly. Cats are famously clean. They spend up to half their waking hours licking to remove dirt, loose hair, and even odours.

Their tongues are covered in tiny, hook-shaped structures called papillae, which act like built-in brushes. This not only keeps them tidy but also helps regulate body temperature and stimulates blood flow.
Most cats go their entire lives without ever needing a bath—and they prefer it that way.

What if…?
There are scenarios where bathing your cat is may be necessary. If your cat gets into something sticky, oily, or potentially toxic, a bath may be the safest way to remove the substance. Cats with certain medical conditions, such as skin infections, allergies, or flea infestations, may require medicated baths as part of their treatment. In these cases, a vet may recommend a specific bathing schedule and special products.

Long-haired breeds
Long-haired cats like Persians or Ragdolls are more prone to tangles and mats, which can be uncomfortable and lead to skin problems if you ignore them. Regular brushing can often prevent this. Occasional baths may be beneficial, especially for cats who aren’t able to groom themselves thoroughly due to age, weight, or health issues.

If you do need to bathe your cat

  • use a shampoo formulated specifically for cats – never use human shampoo or dog products, as these can be harmful
  • be calm and matter-of-fact
  • choose a quiet, warm room, and use a shallow sink or tub with lukewarm water
  • wet your cat gently, avoiding the head and ears, lather carefully and rinse thoroughly
  • towel-dry as best you can and keep them warm and calm afterward.

If the thought of all this still feels overwhelming, or if your cat is particularly anxious, a professional groomer might be worth the investment or talk to your vet about alternatives.

The great news is you’ll probably never have to do this. If you think you might, here is some extra reading to help you prepare:

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Cat Grooming Tips 

PetMD. (2022). How Often Should You Bathe a Cat? 

When should I bathe my cat? Read More »

A deep dive into the litter tray

While purring, grooming habits, and appetite are common indicators of your cat’s health, one of the most overlooked sources of insight is the litter box. Yes, your cat’s urine and faeces can alert you about their internal health—if you know what to look for.

Urine clues: hydration, kidneys, and more
Healthy cat urine is typically pale yellow, with a moderate odor. If your cat’s urine suddenly becomes darker, very strong-smelling, or unusually dilute, it might indicate dehydration or kidney issues.

Frequent urination or unusually large clumps in the litter box can be signs of diabetes or hyperthyroidism.

Conversely, straining to urinate, producing small amounts, or blood in the urine may signal a urinary tract infection (UTI), crystals, or even a life-threatening blockage—especially in male cats.

Watch for changes and chat to your vet.

Faeces fundamentals: digestive health
A healthy cat stool should be firm, brown, and shaped like a log. If your cat’s faeces are consistently soft, mushy, or watery, it may be due to dietary intolerance, parasites, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Hard, dry stools could indicate dehydration or constipation, particularly in older cats. Never ignore blood or mucous—it can point to infections, parasites, or even tumors.

Behavior around the box matters
Cats that suddenly stop using their litter box may be experiencing pain when they try to go. Maybe it’s arthritis (making it hard to climb into a high-sided box), or discomfort linked to UTIs or gastrointestinal issues.

When to see the vet
You can expect to see temporary changes, especially with changes in food or stress. Any persistent change in your cat’s litter box habits, urine color, stool consistency, or frequency should prompt a visit to your vet. Bring a fresh sample, if possible, it may help fast-track a diagnosis.

So…
Monitoring the litter box might not be the most fun aspect of cat ownership, but it’s one of the most powerful tools you have for safeguarding their health.

The next time you scoop, take a moment to observe. Your cat’s toilet behavior might just be the clue you need to keep them purring for years to come.

 

A deep dive into the litter tray Read More »

Managing your cat alergy

woman holding kitten

If you find yourself sneezing, experiencing itchy eyes, or dealing with congestion around cats, it’s likely due to an allergy to a protein called Fel d 1. This protein is found in a cat’s saliva, skin, and urine.

When cats shed fur or groom themselves, the dander gets released into the air. Even though long-haired cats are often thought to produce more allergens, all cats produce this protein, meaning even hypoallergenic breeds can still cause allergic reactions, though at possibly lower levels.

Implementing a few of these strategies will mean that you can still enjoy happy times with your feline mate.

Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter to remove allergens from floors and furniture.

Wash cat bedding and soft surfaces like blankets, pillows, and couches weekly to keep them allergen-free.

Use HEPA air purifiers to capture airborne allergens and keep the air cleaner.

Keep your bedroom a cat-free zone to create an allergen-free area for sleeping and resting.

Use anti-allergen sprays to neutralise dander on surfaces and furniture.

Cover mattresses and pillows with allergy-proof covers to prevent dander from settling.

Wipe your cat with a damp microfiber cloth weekly to remove excess allergens from its fur.

Brush your cat regularly using a dander-control brush to reduce shedding and the spread of allergens.

Try feeding your cat low-allergen food like Purina Pro Plan LiveClear, which is designed to reduce the amount of Fel d 1 in a cat’s saliva.

Try over-the-counter medications: antihistamine tablets and nasal sprays to reduce the symptoms.

Consider immunotherapy: For long-term relief, allergy shots may help desensitize your immune system to allergens.

For more on the science and practicaities of cat alergy, try these sources:

https://www.thermofisher.com/phadia/wo/en/resources/allergen-encyclopedia/e1/e94.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pet-allergy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352198
https://vet.osu.edu/sites/default/files/documents/allergic%20to%20your%20cat.pdf

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Can my cat get Avian Flu?

cat watches wild birds

There are alarming reports from overseas of the spread of the highly contagious H5N1 strain of avian influenza but, so far, it is not in the wild bird population in Australia. As an Aussie cat lover. here’s what you need to know:

Can my cat catch avian flu? Yes, cats can catch avian flu, but it’s pretty rare. The main risk comes from eating infected wildlife or raw food, especially if your cat is allowed to roam outside and hunt. If your cat comes into contact with sick or dead birds, there’s a chance it could be exposed to the virus. But, if your cat stays indoors and isn’t around wild birds, the risk is really low.

Should I be concerned? While the risk of your cat getting avian flu is small, it’s still good to be aware. The main concern is that migrating wild birds might bring the virus to Australia, but there are systems in place to monitor and manage that. If your cat doesn’t interact with wild birds, there’s not much to worry about.

Can I Catch Avian Flu From My Cat? The chances of you catching avian flu from your cat are extremely low. The virus mainly spreads between birds, and while a few human cases have been reported globally, those usually happen through direct contact with infected birds, not from pets. So, unless you’re handling sick birds yourself, the risk of getting sick from your cat is pretty much non-existent.

How Can I Keep My Cat Safe?

  • Keep your cat indoors, or at least supervise outdoor time to stop it from hunting or getting too close to wild birds.
  • If you see sick or dead birds, don’t touch them—just report them to local authorities.
  • Make sure your cat’s food is properly prepared, and avoid feeding raw food from potentially risky sources.

Australia is currently free from the highly contagious H5N1 strain of avian flu but there are concerns about the potential spread of the H5N1 strain through migratory birds.  

While it’s good to stay informed, the risk of your cat getting avian flu right now is really low. Keeping your cat safe from wild birds and handling food carefully will help keep both you and your feline companion free of this disease.

We’ll keep you up to date as the situation changes.

There is detailed information in this publication from the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

Can my cat get Avian Flu? Read More »

Can my cat get diabetes?

Yes, your cat can get diabetes and it is relatively common, occuring in 0.5-1% of cats.

Cats get type 2 diabetes where their pancreas produces insufficient insulin (the chimical that regulates blood sugars) and the body is resistant to it.

Warning signs
As with most conditions, the key to knowing that something is wrong is noting changes in your cat’s behaviour. Diabetes often develops slowly, with signs appearing over weeks or months. Symptoms include:

  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Increased appetite coupled with weight loss. In some cases, cats with diabetes may not show a significant increase in appetite, and instead may develop a reduced or absent appetite.
  • Reduced activity or lethargy
  • A change in posture, such as a flat-footed stance or difficulty jumping.

Diagnosis
Confirming a suspicion of diabetes means a trip to the vet. Diagnosis is based on detecting high blood glucose levels and glucose in the urine. Visiting the vet can actually raise levels so multiple blood tests or home urine analysis may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment
Diabetes in cats can be managed with proper treatment and lifestyle changes. The key is early intervention and continuous monitoring of blood glucose levels. Treatments include:

  • Insulin Therapy: Insulin injections are the main treatment for most diabetic cats. Long-acting insulins regulate blood glucose levels while reducing the need for frequent injections.
  • Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 (SGLT2) Inhibitors: In the early stages of diabetes, SGLT2 inhibitors can be used to reduce blood glucose levels by preventing the reabsorption of glucose by the kidneys. These medications can be given with food and are most effective in cats that are still producing some insulin.
  • Managing diet: Low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets are crucial in managing diabetes in cats, especially for those receiving insulin. These diets help to reduce blood sugar levels and improve the chances of remission. When using SGLT2 inhibitors, a low-carb diet may not always be suitable.
  • Weight Management: Obesity is a major risk factor for diabetes in cats. Gradual weight loss, at a rate of about 1-2% of body weight per week, can help manage diabetes and increase the chances of remission. It may take several months to reach an ideal weight, and adding fibre-rich foods can help.

Prevention
Factors that increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in cats include obesity, aging, genetics, and being indoor-only.
In some cases, diabetes in cats can also be caused by other health conditions, such as chronic pancreatitis, and acromegaly, a condition where excess growth hormone leads to insulin dysfunction.

Living with diabetes
When diagnosed early and treated effectively with insulin and diet, up to 80% of diabetic cats may achieve remission. This means their insulin needs can be significantly reduced or eliminated with careful monitoring.

Remission is most likely when their blood glucose levels are tightly controlled early in the course of the disease. This includes regular glucose monitoring and weight management.
In many cases, diabetes remains a lifelong condition that requires careful management. Regular blood glucose monitoring, adjusting insulin doses, and maintaining a healthy diet are essential to managing the condition and preventing complications.

Advances in home glucose monitoring tools, including continuous glucose monitors, have made it easier for owners to track and adjust their cat’s treatment.

With proper diet, insulin therapy, weight management, and glucose monitoring, diabetic cats can live a fulfilling life.

Can my cat get diabetes? Read More »

The mystery of gingers, torties and calicos solved!

Have you ever wondered why there are far more male ginger cats than females or the genetic story behind tortoiseshells and calicos?

After more than a century of curiosity, scientists in the USA and Japan have finally uncovered the genetic secrets behind these classic feline coat colors.

They have confirmed that the vibrant orange coat in cats,  ginger, is linked to a gene on the X chromosome, called the Orange gene.

This discovery supports a theory proposed in 1912 by American geneticist Clarence Cook Little. He suggested that coat colour is tied to the X chromosome which means that male cats (with the X and Y gene) can only be either completely orange or non-orange. Females (with two X genes) can inherit both forms of the gene, resulting in the unique mixed patterns seen in tortoiseshells and calicos.

So, why are most gingers male?

Since males only need one copy of the orange gene to express the color, they are more likely to be ginger. Females, on the other hand, require two orange gene copies, which is far less common. This explains why only about 4% of female cats are ginger.

Recent studies have pinpointed the Orange gene’s function. A large DNA deletion in the gene alters when and where it activates, producing orange fur. This gene is also involved in hair follicle development, revealing a new biological pathway for pigment production.

In tortoiseshells and calicos, the gene is activated in some areas and not in others, creating their patchwork coats.

Although a very few male tortoiseshells and calicos occur, they typically have an extra X chromosome, which is very rare. This research highlights the complicated genetics behind these much-loved cat colour variations.

For ginger cat fans and tortie admirers, this discovery answers some age-old questions – and opens doors to exciting new scientific exploration.

Watch this space!

The mystery of gingers, torties and calicos solved! Read More »

Thanks to our generous donors

pie chart showing percentage of total donations by ech donor

Thank you to the individual donors and to the people in the organisations that donated to the Feline Health Research Fund this financial year. 

Donations maintain the grants program that supports groundbreaking  research into issues that practically affect the longevity and quality of life of Australia’s domestic cats.

Thanks to:

the British Shorthair Cat Club

Cats Unite – WA

the Coordinating Cat Council of Australia

the Feline Association of SA

the Feline Control Council of Victoria

the Feline Control Council of Victoria – raffles

the General Council of the Cat Fancy Victoria

Kerry Fowler

Pamela Lanigan

the Queensland Feline Association

 

Thanks to our generous donors Read More »

2024 research grant applications open today

AI image of cat in front of graphs and equations

If you are looking for a partner to fund your cat health related research, we may be what you need.

The Feline Health Research Fund makes grants of up to $10,000 from it’s pool of  donations from cat lovers, professionals and the industry to fund quality Australian research into issues affecting the health, wellbeing and longevity of domestic cats.

We are encouraging applications from a range of disciplines into a wide range of health issues for domestic cats.

For more information, please go to the Applying for a Grant page on our website.  From there you can download the Small Grants Application Form, read the Grant FAQs and check out details of previously funded projects.

The window for this grant round opens on the Monday 1 July and closes at 5pm on Friday 2 August at 5pm.

If you have questions after reading the website information, please email the Secretary, Feline Health Research Fund.

 

2024 research grant applications open today Read More »

Research points to better cat pain relief

In our latest funding round, we are supporting research at the University of Sydney, exploring new ways to treat arthritis-related chronic pain in cats by studying their cannabinoid receptors. This research project is tackling a major issue in feline health: the lack of safe and effective treatments for arthritis pain.

Arthritis affects a lot of older cats—about 92% show signs of degenerative joint disease. Current treatments like non-steroidal anti inflamatories and nerve growth factor inhibitors give limited relief and can be expensive or come with safety concerns. This makes finding new solutions more urgent than ever.

Cannabidiol (one of the non-psychoactive elements of cannabis) has been used to treat dogs for some time but its use to treat cats is in early stages.

Our research focuses on using genomic data to better understand and target cannabinoid receptors (CNR1 and CNR2), which play key roles in managing pain and inflammation. By studying the genetic variants of these receptors in cats, there is the potential to develop better treatments for arthritis-related pain.

Thank you for your encouragement and support. There is the potential to make a real difference in the lives of cats suffering from arthrititic pain as this research flows through to vetinary practice.

You might also be interested in our post Osteoarthritis – is your cat suffering in silence?

You can support this and other ongoing research into cat health issues by visting our donations page.

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