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Can Cats Eat Avocado?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Is avocado safe for cats?
Avocado is a creamy green fruit with a large, hard pit in the middle. It is very high in fat. The flesh is rarely harmful to cats, but the pit is a hazard and avocado is very fatty, so it is best not offered. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need avocado. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer avocado
- If you offer any at all, use a small piece of plain flesh
- Keep pits, skins and avocado plant leaves away from your cat
- Call your vet if your cat swallowed the pit
What to avoid
- The pit, which is a choking and blockage risk
- The skin, leaves and bark, which contain more persin
- Guacamole, which often contains onion and garlic
How much avocado can my cat have?
If you decide to offer avocado despite the cautions above, give just one tiny taste and check with your vet first, especially if your cat has any health condition. When in doubt, skip it.
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.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat avocado?
Because avocado needs extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid it for kittens.
What if my cat ate too much avocado?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your cat ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
Should avocado be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making avocado a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Avocado?