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Can Cats Eat Pecans?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Are pecans safe for cats?
Pecans are a rich, buttery tree nut, related to walnuts, and can develop the same dangerous mold. Pecans offer no benefit to a meat-eating animal and are high in fat, and moldy pecans can contain tremor-causing toxins, so it is best not to offer them. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need pecans. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer pecans
- Keep pecans, especially moldy or old ones, well out of reach
- If you offer a plain pecan at all, make sure it is fresh and given only occasionally
- Choose a treat made for cats instead
What to avoid
- Moldy pecans, which can contain tremor- and seizure-causing toxins
- Candied, chocolate-covered or spiced pecans
- Pecan pie, which adds sugar and sometimes chocolate
How many pecans can my cat have?
If you decide to offer pecans 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 pecans?
Because pecans need extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid them for kittens.
What if my cat ate too many pecans?
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 pecans be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making pecans a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Pecans?