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Can Cats Eat Sunflower Seeds?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Are sunflower seeds safe for cats?
Sunflower seeds are small, oily seeds often sold roasted and salted, still in the shell. A few plain, unsalted, shelled sunflower seeds are not toxic to cats, but they offer little to a meat-eating animal. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need sunflower seeds. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to serve sunflower seeds to your cat
- Remove the shells before offering any
- Choose plain, unsalted seeds
- Offer just a few as an occasional treat
What to avoid
- The shells, which are not digestible and can cause blockage in quantity
- Salted or flavored sunflower seeds
How many sunflower seeds can my cat have?
Offer just a tiny taste, about a fingernail-sized piece, once in a while. Treats, including sunflower seeds, should stay under about 10% of your cat's daily calories.
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 sunflower seeds?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding sunflower seeds. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my cat ate too many sunflower seeds?
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".
How often can my cat have sunflower seeds?
Treat them as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult cat, and less for small ones.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Sunflower Seeds?