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Can Cats Eat Fried Chicken?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Is fried chicken safe for cats?
Fried chicken is chicken coated in batter or breading and deep-fried, often seasoned with salt, garlic or spices. Plain cooked chicken meat is fine for cats, but the fried, seasoned coating is not suitable and adds unnecessary fat and salt. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need fried chicken. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer fried chicken
- Peel off the skin and breading and offer only the plain meat
- Make sure there are no bones, which can splinter
- Keep it to a small piece as an occasional treat
What to avoid
- The fried skin and breading, which are greasy and often salted or spiced
- Bones of any kind, which can splinter and cause choking or blockage
- Fried chicken seasoned with garlic or onion powder
How much fried chicken can my cat have?
If you decide to offer fried chicken 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 fried chicken?
Because fried chicken needs extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid it for kittens.
What if my cat ate too much fried chicken?
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 fried chicken be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making fried chicken a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Fried Chicken?