Pets, such as cats and dogs, have different nutritional needs, so it's not ideal for one species to eat the other's food regularly. Dog food is formulated with different nutrient ratios that suit dogs, including higher amounts of carbohydrates and lower levels of protein and fat than cat food. Conversely, cat food is specially designed for the higher protein and fat requirements of cats.
While an occasional bite of the wrong food is not likely to harm a pet, consistently feeding them the wrong food can lead to nutritional imbalances, which may cause health issues. For instance, cats fed dog food may develop deficiencies in taurine, an essential amino acid for cats, which can lead to heart problems and other health issues.
It's always best to stick to food specifically designed for your pet's species to ensure they are getting the right nutrients.