Can cats eat olive oil? Yes, a few drops occasionally
Quick answer: Yes, in moderation — cats can have olive oil in small amounts as an occasional treat.
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A few drops occasionally on food; do not overdo it.
Why
A few drops of plain olive oil are generally well tolerated by cats.
Can cats eat olive oil, and why?
A few drops of plain olive oil are generally well tolerated by cats. Too much can cause stomach upset; keep portions tiny.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
How to feed olive oil to cats
- •How much: A few drops occasionally on food; do not overdo it.
- •How often: An occasional treat, not a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
- •Young pets: Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
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Feeding & nutrition guides
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat olive oil?
In moderation. A few drops of plain olive oil are generally well tolerated by cats.
How much olive oil can a cat have?
A few drops occasionally on food; do not overdo it.
Can cats eat olive oil every day?
It’s best as an occasional treat rather than a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
Can kittens eat olive oil?
Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
Free printable: safe & toxic foods for cats
olive oil is just one food — get the full one-page checklist of what’s safe, fine in moderation, or dangerous for cats. Vet-sourced, yours to print and keep.
Check olive oil for another pet
Sources
Our verdict on whether cats can eat olive oil draws on established UK and US veterinary and welfare organisations. Individual pets, quantities and preparation vary — always confirm with your own vet.