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Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Is peanut butter safe for cats?
Peanut butter is a spread made from ground roasted peanuts, and a favorite way to hide pills or fill chew toys. Peanut butter is not known to be toxic to cats, but it is very sticky, fatty and often salty, and cats gain nothing from it, so it is best skipped. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need peanut butter. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer peanut butter
- Read the ingredient list and make sure it contains no xylitol
- Choose unsalted, unsweetened peanut butter
- Offer a small lick or up to a teaspoon, depending on size
What to avoid
- Any peanut butter that lists xylitol (also called birch sugar)
- Salted or sweetened peanut butter
- Large amounts, which add a lot of fat and calories
How much peanut butter can my cat have?
If you decide to offer peanut butter 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 peanut butter?
Because peanut butter needs extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid it for kittens.
What if my cat ate too much peanut butter?
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 peanut butter be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making peanut butter a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter?