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Can Cats Eat Mushrooms?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Are mushrooms safe for cats?
Plain store-bought mushrooms are edible fungi, but many wild mushrooms are dangerous. Cats do not need mushrooms, and wild mushrooms can be deadly, so it is safest to skip them. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need mushrooms. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer mushrooms
- Use only plain, cooked, store-bought mushrooms
- Never feed foraged or unidentified mushrooms
- If your cat eats a wild mushroom, call your vet or a poison hotline right away
What to avoid
- Wild mushrooms
- Mushrooms cooked with butter, garlic or onion
How many mushrooms can my cat have?
If you decide to offer mushrooms 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 mushrooms?
Because mushrooms need extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid them for kittens.
What if my cat ate too many mushrooms?
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 mushrooms be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making mushrooms a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?