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Can Cats Eat Alcohol?
Do not give alcohol to cats.
Is alcohol safe for cats?
Alcohol includes beer, wine, spirits and any food or drink containing ethanol, including some unbaked dough. Alcohol is toxic to cats. Their small body size means even a small amount of beer, wine or spirits can cause serious problems.
What to do instead
- Keep alcoholic drinks, unattended glasses, and unbaked yeast dough out of reach
- If your cat drank any alcohol or ate raw dough, call your vet or a poison hotline right away
- Never offer alcohol to a pet, even as a joke or for a photo
- Choose water or a treat made for cats instead
What to avoid
- Beer, wine, spirits and cocktails
- Unbaked bread or pizza dough, which produces alcohol as it rises
- Desserts or sauces made with liqueur or wine
How much alcohol can my cat have?
There is no amount of alcohol that we can recommend for cats. Skip it entirely.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Important: Signs can include disorientation, vomiting, slowed breathing, tremors, low body temperature and, in serious cases, collapse.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat alcohol?
No. Alcohol should not be given to cats of any age.
What should I do if my cat ate alcohol?
Call your vet or an animal poison hotline right away, even if your cat seems fine. Tell them what was eaten, roughly how much, when, and your cat's weight. Do not try to make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Is there a safe amount of alcohol for my cat?
There is no amount of alcohol that we can recommend, and some cats react to very small amounts. It is best not to give any.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Alcohol?