Can Cats Drink Tea?

It is never okay to let your cat drink tea. Caffeine in large enough quantities can be fatal for a cat, and since many teas contain caffeine, this is a huge no-no for kitty. In addition to tea and coffee, caffeine can also often be found in coffee beans, coffee grounds, cocoa, chocolate, colas and energy/stimulant drinks such as Monster and/or Red Bull. It is also found in some medicines and pain killers.

Symptoms Of Caffeine Poisoning

If your cat consumes coffee, tea, chocolate etc. he or she may become poisoned. The following are symptoms of caffeine poisoning and should not be ignored or taken lightly:

• Restlessness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Heart Palpitations
• Rapid Breathing
• Muscle Tremors
• Fits

A Cat’s Diet

Cats are carnivores and require meat. Talking with your vet about the cat food you provide for kitty and following his or her advice along with the directions on the label will help ensure that your cat’s diet is well balance and that your cat stays in the best of health. An occasional treat every now and then is okay, but it should always be given in moderation and should never become more than 5% of your cat’s daily calorie intake and in any case things like tea and coffee are never okay as they are toxic to cats.

What To Do If Your Cat Becomes Poisoned

If you think that your cat has gotten a hold of something toxic it is important to contact your veterinarian or pet poison control center immediately. Inducing vomiting is also another option and in most cases is what the veterinarian will do when you seek medical assistance. In any case, a medical professional should always be contacted and instances such as these should never be ignored and/or left untreated as it could mean the end for your cat.