Can cats eat popcorn?

Why

Popcorn is not toxic to cats, but it provides no essential nutrients they need and can be difficult to digest. The hard kernels pose a risk of choking or damaging teeth, and many commercial varieties contain salt, butter, or seasonings that are harmful to felines.

If you do feed it

• Serve only plain, fully popped kernels with no salt, butter, oil, or seasonings.
• Limit to 1-2 small pieces as an occasional treat, not a meal.
• Ensure the cat chews properly to avoid choking on hard kernels.
• Avoid unpopped kernels entirely as they can get stuck in the throat.

Watch out for

• Unpopped kernels
• Salted or buttered popcorn
• Popcorn with chocolate, caramel, or artificial sweeteners
• Popcorn with onion or garlic powder

Better choices