Can cats eat peanuts?

If your cat has already eaten this and you are worried, contact your veterinarian.

Why

Peanuts are high in fat and salt, which can lead to pancreatitis or stomach upset in cats, and they offer no nutritional benefit that a balanced cat food doesn't already provide. Additionally, cats are prone to choking on hard nuts, and some may have allergic reactions.

If you do feed it

Offer only one or two plain, unsalted, and unroasted peanuts as a rare treat.
Ensure the peanuts are crushed or chopped to prevent choking hazards.
Avoid any peanuts with added salt, spices, or sweeteners like chocolate.
Monitor your cat closely after eating to check for vomiting or digestive issues.

Watch out for

Salted or roasted peanuts
Chocolate-covered or flavored peanuts
Whole peanuts (choking risk)
Moldy or old peanuts (aflatoxin risk)

Better choices

Small pieces of cooked chicken Freeze-dried salmon treats Commercial cat treats formulated for digestion A few pieces of cooked pumpkin

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