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Can Cats Eat Bread?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Is bread safe for cats?
Bread is a baked food made from flour, water and usually yeast. A tiny piece of plain baked bread will not harm most cats, but it has no value for them, and raw yeast dough is dangerous. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need bread. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.
How to serve bread to your cat
- Offer only plain white or wheat bread
- Give a small piece as an occasional treat
- Check that the bread has no raisins, nuts or sweetener in it
What to avoid
- Raw yeast dough, which expands in the stomach and produces alcohol
- Bread with raisins, garlic, onion or herbs
- Sweet breads, which can contain xylitol or raisins
How much bread can my cat have?
Offer just a tiny taste, about a fingernail-sized piece, once in a while. Treats, including bread, should stay under about 10% of your cat's daily calories.
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 bread?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding bread. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my cat ate too much bread?
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".
How often can my cat have bread?
Treat it as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult cat, and less for small ones.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Bread?