What to Feed a Cat If You Have No Cat Food: Safe Alternatives and Expert Tips

Cats are beloved companions, and their health and well-being depend heavily on proper nutrition. As a responsible pet owner, you’re used to keeping a steady supply of high-quality cat food in the cupboard. But what happens when you run out—perhaps due to an unexpected delay in delivery, being away from home, or an emergency situation— and have no cat food available? It’s a stressful scenario, but it’s important to stay calm and make informed choices.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the safe, temporary options for feeding your cat when commercial cat food is unavailable. You’ll learn which human foods are acceptable in small amounts, which to avoid, and how to manage your cat’s diet in a crisis without compromising their health.

Understanding Your Cat’s Nutritional Needs

Before diving into alternative food sources, it’s crucial to understand what makes cat nutrition unique.

Feline Physiology and Diet Requirements

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are designed to thrive on a diet primarily composed of animal-based proteins. Unlike omnivores (like humans or dogs), cats cannot properly digest large amounts of plant matter and have specific nutritional requirements that must be met for long-term health.

Essential nutrients for cats include:

• Taurine: An amino acid critical for heart health, vision, and reproduction. A deficiency can lead to blindness or heart failure.
• Arachidonic acid: A fatty acid found only in animal tissues, needed for skin health and inflammatory responses.
• Vitamin A: Cats cannot convert beta-carotene (from plants) into active vitamin A, so they must obtain it directly from animal sources.
• Niacin (Vitamin B3): Required for metabolic functions and typically derived from meat.
• Animal-based protein: High biological value proteins are necessary for muscle maintenance and organ function.

Because of these dietary demands, feeding cats a human meal—even if it seems nutritious—can be risky over time.

Why You Should Avoid Long-Term Use of Human Food

While some human foods can serve as a temporary substitute, they are not balanced for long-term feline nutrition. Commercial cat food is formulated to deliver precise ratios of protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Homemade or human diets often lack taurine, calcium, or other essentials unless carefully supplemented, which most pet owners are not equipped to do safely.

There is also a risk of over-supplying certain nutrients. For example, too much vitamin D or excessive fat can harm your cat’s liver or kidneys. Temporary feeding is safe; long-term substitution is not.

Safe Human Food Alternatives to Cat Food

In an emergency, you can offer your cat specific human foods that align with their carnivorous needs. The key is to choose simple, unseasoned, and protein-rich items.

1. Plain Cooked Meat

One of the safest and most natural alternatives is plain, cooked meat. Avoid fried, smoked, or seasoned varieties.

Recommended options:

• Boiled chicken (skin removed, no seasoning)
• Plain cooked turkey
• Lean beef (well-cooked and diced into small pieces)
• Cooked liver (in small quantities—excess vitamin A can be toxic)

Tips for preparation:

• Use boneless cuts to prevent choking or intestinal obstructions.
• Avoid onions, garlic, salt, and spices, which are toxic to cats.
• Cut meat into bite-sized pieces appropriate for your cat’s size.
• Offer only a small portion (e.g., 1–2 ounces for an average adult cat) to avoid digestive upset.

2. Eggs (Cooked Only)

Eggs are an excellent source of protein and essential amino acids. However, they must be fully cooked.

Why raw eggs are dangerous:

• Raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin, which can interfere with biotin (a B vitamin) absorption.
• Raw eggs may carry salmonella or E. coli bacteria, posing a risk to both cats and humans.

Cooked eggs—scrambled or boiled without oil, butter, salt, or seasoning—can be offered in small amounts. One tablespoon of scrambled egg once is sufficient for a short-term substitute.

3. Fish (Occasionally and Cooked)

Fish like tuna or salmon can be appealing to cats due to their strong scent, but they should be used cautiously.

Guidelines for feeding fish:

• Only offer plain, cooked fish (steamed or boiled).
• Avoid canned tuna meant for human consumption; it often contains excess sodium and oil.
• Never feed raw fish—thiaminase in raw fish breaks down thiamine (vitamin B1), leading to deficiency.
• Limit fish to 1–2 small servings per week to reduce mercury exposure and prevent vitamin E deficiency.

A small amount (1–2 tablespoons) of cooked salmon or cod can be a suitable meal replacement during a cat food shortage.

4. Dairy (Cautiously and in Small Amounts)

While popular in cartoons, the reality is that most adult cats are lactose intolerant. Their ability to digest lactose declines after weaning.

However, if you’re desperate and have plain, unsweetened yogurt or cottage cheese, these can be offered sparingly:

• Cottage cheese: High in protein and lower in lactose than milk.
• Plain yogurt: May contain beneficial probiotics, but only if free of artificial sweeteners.

Important warning: Never feed sweetened yogurt or milk with flavorings. Artificial sweeteners like xylitol are highly toxic to pets.

A teaspoon of plain yogurt can support digestion, but don’t use it as a primary food source.

5. Small Amount of Grains or Vegetables (Highly Limited)

While not ideal, a tiny portion of certain grains or vegetables can be added to meat to stretch a meal, but they should never comprise more than 5–10% of the substitute diet.

Possible additions:

• Cooked white rice (plain, unseasoned) for firmer stool
• Pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling): Helps with constipation or mild diarrhea
• Cooked carrots or peas: Only in tiny amounts

Cats do not require carbohydrates, but in an emergency, these can help bulk the meal and prevent gastrointestinal issues.

Sample Emergency Cat Meal Ideas

Here are three quick, safe meal combinations you can prepare at home:

1. Boiled Chicken and Rice: 2 tablespoons boiled chicken + 1 tablespoon cooked white rice. Mix and serve cooled.
2. Scrambled Egg with Pumpkin: 1 tablespoon plain scrambled egg + 1 teaspoon plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling).
3. Lean Beef with Cottage Cheese: 1 tablespoon cooked beef + 1 teaspoon low-fat cottage cheese.

Each portion should be size-appropriate and offered only once per meal during the shortage period.

Foods to Avoid at All Costs

Some human foods are deadly to cats. Even small amounts can cause serious illness, organ failure, or death.

Highly Toxic Foods for Cats

Foods That May Seem Safe but Are Harmful

• Bread and baked goods: Often contain yeast, sugar, or harmful ingredients like raisins.
• Salted snacks: Too much sodium can lead to sodium ion poisoning.
• Nuts: Especially macadamia nuts, which are toxic to dogs and potentially harmful to cats.
• Processed meats: Lunch meat, bacon, sausage—high in salt, fat, and preservatives.

Never feed any food with artificial sweeteners. Xylitol, commonly found in sugar-free gum and baked goods, is extremely toxic and can cause rapid insulin release, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), liver failure, and death.

How to Handle the Situation Calmly and Safely

Emergencies happen, but proactive steps can minimize risk and ensure your cat remains comfortable and nourished.

1. Assess Your Cat’s Condition

Is your cat healthy, young, and active? Or do they have underlying conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or obesity? Older or sick cats need stricter dietary control. For example, cats with kidney issues need phosphorus-limited diets, and those with diabetes require stable carbohydrate levels.

If your cat has a medical condition, consult a veterinarian before offering any substitute food.

2. Monitor for Adverse Reactions

When introducing a new food—even temporarily—watch for any signs of discomfort in your cat. These include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 12 hours
• Lethargy or unusual behavior
• Refusal to eat after the first bite
• Excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth

If any of these symptoms occur, discontinue the food and consult a vet.

3. Keep Portions Small and Balanced

During a food shortage, resist the urge to overfeed with whatever you have available. Overfeeding liver (high in vitamin A), for example, can cause toxicity. Similarly, too much fish increases mercury risk.

Stick to small, controlled portions and feed as close to your cat’s regular schedule as possible—typically 2–3 times per day for adults.

4. Replenish Cat Food ASAP

Even if your cat seems fine on temporary food, the goal is to return to a balanced commercial diet as soon as possible. Look for:

• Local pet supply stores open late or on weekends
• Delivery services (some retailers offer same-day delivery)
• Veterinary clinics that sell food
• Friends or neighbors who may have spare cat food

Many mobile vet clinics or shelters also offer emergency food assistance in difficult times.

What About Baby Food?

A common myth is that baby food is a safe substitute for cat food. While some baby foods are meat-based and free of seasoning, many contain onion or garlic powder, which are toxic.

If you’re considering baby food:

• Check the ingredient list carefully—only use plain meat varieties with no added seasonings.
• Avoid any labeled “with gravy” or “vegetable mix.”
• Do not use as a long-term solution—it lacks essential nutrients like taurine.

Even if the label says “turkey and rice,” hidden additives may be present. Use only in dire circumstances and for no more than one meal.

Homemade Cat Food: Is It a Viable Long-Term Option?

While some pet owners advocate for homemade diets, creating a nutritionally complete homemade cat food recipe is extremely difficult without veterinary or animal nutritionist guidance.

Homemade diets often fail to provide:

• Proper calcium-to-phosphorus ratios
• Adequate taurine levels
• Balanced vitamin and mineral profiles

Studies show that over 90% of homemade pet diets are nutritionally inadequate. This can lead to serious health issues over time, including bone disease, heart problems, and neurological disorders.

If you’re interested in feeding your cat homemade food regularly, first consult a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They can create a tailored recipe that meets all of your cat’s nutritional needs.

Caring for Kittens in a Food Emergency

Kittens have even more specific nutritional needs than adult cats. They require higher calories, protein, and certain nutrients for development.

Do not feed kittens the same emergency meals as adults. They are more vulnerable to deficiencies and toxicity.

If kitten food is unavailable:

• Look for kitten-specific replacement formulas available at pet stores or vet clinics.
• Avoid giving cow’s milk—kittens are lactose intolerant and it can cause severe diarrhea.
• In urgent cases, a kitten milk replacer (like KMR) is far safer than human baby food or milk.

Never feed raw meat to kittens—their immune systems are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to foodborne illnesses.

Final Tips and Best Practices

Running out of cat food doesn’t have to become a crisis. With informed, cautious choices, you can keep your cat healthy until you can restock properly.

Prevention Is Key

• Keep a small reserve of cat food (at least a 3–5 day supply) in your pantry.
• Subscribe to automatic delivery services to avoid lapses.
• Know the location of emergency pet supply stores near your home.
• Keep your veterinarian’s emergency contact on hand.

When to Call the Vet

Seek professional help if:

• Your cat refuses to eat for more than 24 hours
• You suspect they’ve ingested a toxic food
• They show signs of illness (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy)
• They are a senior cat, kitten, or have chronic health issues

Cats can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) after just a few days of not eating. This is life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary care.

Conclusion

While running out of cat food is inconvenient, it doesn’t mean your cat must go hungry or malnourished. With a clear understanding of feline nutritional needs and access to safe, temporary alternatives like plain cooked meat, eggs, or fish, you can provide short-term sustenance during an emergency.

Always prioritize unseasoned, animal-based proteins and avoid toxic foods like onions, garlic, chocolate, or caffeine. Monitor your cat closely and return to a complete, balanced commercial diet as soon as possible.

By preparing in advance and staying calm during shortages, you ensure your cat remains healthy, happy, and well-fed—even in unexpected situations. Your vigilance and care make all the difference in their well-being.

Can I feed my cat cooked chicken if I run out of cat food?

Yes, you can feed your cat cooked chicken in a pinch, as it is a safe and protein-rich alternative to commercial cat food. Plain, unseasoned boiled or baked chicken (preferably skinless and boneless) closely mimics the high-protein diet cats require. Avoid using onions, garlic, salt, or spices when preparing the chicken, as these ingredients are toxic to cats and can cause serious health issues.

While cooked chicken can be fed temporarily, it should not serve as a long-term replacement for balanced cat food. Cats need specific nutrients such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A, which may not be sufficiently present in plain chicken. To improve nutritional value, you can add a small amount of cooked liver (a natural source of taurine) or a pet-safe vitamin supplement, but only under veterinary guidance. Feed chicken in moderation and return to a complete and balanced cat food as soon as possible.

Is it safe to give my cat scrambled eggs?

Scrambled eggs, when prepared correctly, can be a safe and nutritious short-term alternative for cats. Eggs are rich in protein and essential amino acids, making them beneficial in small amounts. To ensure safety, cook the eggs thoroughly without adding salt, butter, milk, or seasonings like onions or garlic, all of which are harmful to cats. Plain, lightly cooked eggs are the best option.

While eggs offer valuable nutrients, they should not make up a large portion of your cat’s diet. Overfeeding eggs can lead to biotin deficiency due to a protein in raw egg whites called avidin, but since you’re feeding cooked eggs, this risk is significantly reduced. Limit scrambled eggs to just a few tablespoons once or twice during an emergency food shortage. Always observe your cat for any adverse reactions, such as digestive upset, and discontinue if any occur.

Can I feed my cat canned tuna meant for humans?

Canned tuna intended for human consumption can be given to cats in very small amounts and only occasionally. While tuna is high in protein and appealing to most cats, it lacks certain nutrients essential for feline health and may contain excessive sodium or oil. Additionally, regular feeding of human-grade tuna can lead to mercury buildup and nutritional imbalances, such as vitamin E deficiency or even a condition known as “yellow fat disease” (steatitis).

If you must use canned tuna during a food shortage, choose tuna packed in water and rinse it thoroughly to reduce sodium content. Limit the portion to a tablespoon or two and only offer it for one or two meals. Avoid making it a habit. To improve nutritional balance, you could mix the tuna with a bit of cooked egg or a small amount of plain cooked vegetables like pumpkin. Always transition back to proper cat food as soon as possible.

What should I do if I only have dog food available?

In an emergency, feeding your cat a small amount of dog food for one or two meals is unlikely to cause immediate harm, but it is not a safe or sustainable option. Dog food lacks essential nutrients that cats need, such as taurine, preformed vitamin A, and arachidonic acid. Without these, cats can develop serious health problems, including heart disease, vision issues, and skin disorders, even after short-term exposure.

Never rely on dog food as a substitute for cat food beyond a single meal or two at most. If you have no other options and must use dog food temporarily, choose a high-protein variety and mix in something like plain cooked meat or a scrambled egg to boost nutrient content. Monitor your cat closely for signs of lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite. Replace dog food with proper cat food as soon as possible and consult a veterinarian if your cat shows any adverse reactions.

Are dairy products like milk or cheese safe for cats to eat?

While many people assume cats enjoy and can safely drink milk, most adult cats are lactose intolerant, making milk a risky choice. Consuming milk or other dairy products can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea, gas, and vomiting, because cats lack sufficient lactase enzymes to break down lactose. Even small amounts may cause discomfort, so it’s best to avoid offering regular cow’s milk.

Some limited dairy products, like plain yogurt or small bits of hard cheese, may be tolerated in tiny amounts because they contain less lactose. Greek yogurt, in particular, has active cultures that help with digestion and is sometimes used to support gut health in cats. However, these should only be used occasionally and not as a meal replacement. If you choose to offer dairy, start with a very small portion and watch for any gastrointestinal signs.

Can I give my cat rice or pasta during a food emergency?

Plain, cooked rice or pasta can be given to cats in small amounts as a filler during a temporary food shortage, but they should not form a major part of the meal. These carbohydrates are not toxic and can help soothe an upset stomach, especially when combined with a protein source like boiled chicken. Use white rice or plain pasta without butter, salt, or seasoning, as additives can be harmful.

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet predominantly made up of animal-based protein and have limited ability to digest carbohydrates. Relying on rice or pasta alone can lead to malnutrition and energy deficiency over time. Serve it only as a minor component alongside protein-rich foods and discontinue once regular cat food is available. Long-term use can impair growth, muscle development, and overall health.

What human foods should I never feed my cat in an emergency?

Certain human foods are toxic to cats and should be strictly avoided, even during food shortages. These include onions, garlic, chives, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, grapes, raisins, and foods with artificial sweeteners like xylitol. These ingredients can cause severe health issues ranging from anemia and gastrointestinal damage to kidney failure and neurological problems. Additionally, salty, fatty, or spicy foods can lead to pancreatitis or dehydration.

It’s also unsafe to feed raw meat, raw fish, or raw eggs regularly, as they may carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli and can interfere with nutrient absorption. Raw fish, in particular, contains an enzyme that breaks down thiamine, an essential B vitamin for cats. Always prioritize cooked, plain, and safe food options and when in doubt, consult a veterinarian before introducing any new food into your cat’s diet.