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Can Cats Eat Hot Dogs?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Are hot dogs safe for cats?
A hot dog is a cooked sausage, usually made from beef, pork or chicken, served in a long bun. A small piece of plain hot dog is not toxic to cats, but it is salty, fatty and processed, and offers no benefit over a proper treat. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need hot dogs. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer hot dogs
- Cut it into small pieces rather than coin-shaped rounds, which can lodge in the throat
- Offer only plain sausage with no bun, mustard or ketchup
- Keep it to a rare, small treat
What to avoid
- Whole or coin-sliced pieces, which are a choking hazard
- The bun and condiments
- Regular feeding, because of the salt, fat and preservatives
How many hot dogs can my cat have?
If you decide to offer hot dogs 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 hot dogs?
Because hot dogs need extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid them for kittens.
What if my cat ate too many hot dogs?
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 hot dogs be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making hot dogs a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Hot Dogs?