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Can Cats Eat Walnuts?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Are walnuts safe for cats?
Walnuts are a fatty tree nut. English walnuts are less risky than black walnuts, which can carry a dangerous mold. Walnuts offer nothing a cat needs and are high in fat, and moldy or black walnuts contain toxins that can cause tremors and seizures, so it is simplest to avoid them. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need walnuts. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer walnuts
- Keep walnuts, especially black walnuts and any moldy ones, well out of reach
- If you offer plain English walnuts at all, use a small piece and watch for choking
- Never let your cat pick up fallen walnuts outdoors
What to avoid
- Black walnuts, which contain a toxin regardless of mold
- Any moldy walnuts, which can contain seizure-causing toxins
- Walnuts in baked goods, which often also contain chocolate or raisins
How many walnuts can my cat have?
If you decide to offer walnuts 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 walnuts?
Because walnuts need extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid them for kittens.
What if my cat ate too many walnuts?
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 walnuts be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making walnuts a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Walnuts?