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Can Cats Eat Tomatoes?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Are tomatoes safe for cats?
Tomatoes are juicy red fruits that are usually eaten as vegetables. Their stems, leaves and unripe fruit contain solanine. A tiny bit of ripe tomato flesh is unlikely to harm a cat, but the green parts of the tomato plant are toxic to cats, and cats do not need tomato. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need tomatoes. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer tomatoes
- Serve only fully ripe, red tomatoes
- Remove the stem and any leaves
- Offer a small piece
What to avoid
- Green tomatoes, stems and leaves, which contain solanine
- Tomato sauce, ketchup and soups, which often contain onion, garlic, salt or sugar
How many tomatoes can my cat have?
If you decide to offer tomatoes 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 tomatoes?
Because tomatoes need extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid them for kittens.
What if my cat ate too many tomatoes?
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 tomatoes be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making tomatoes a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes?