Can cats eat peanuts?

Why

Peanuts are high in fat and salt, which can lead to pancreatitis or stomach upset in cats if consumed in excess. They also pose a choking hazard and can trigger allergic reactions in some felines. Additionally, cats are obligate carnivores and do not derive significant nutritional value from nuts.

If you do feed it

• Offer only a single, unsalted, raw or dry-roasted peanut as a rare treat.
• Ensure the peanut is shelled and crushed or chopped to prevent choking.
• Monitor your cat closely for any signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy after consumption.
• Never feed peanuts that are salted, flavored, or coated in chocolate or sugar.

Watch out for

• Salted or flavored peanuts
• Chocolate-covered peanuts
• Peanut butter with xylitol
• Whole peanuts (choking hazard)
• Moldy peanuts (aflatoxin risk)

Better choices