Can cats eat pine nuts?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Too fatty with no benefit.
Why
Pine nuts are not recommended for cats.
Can cats eat pine nuts, and why?
Pine nuts are not recommended for cats. Too fatty with no benefit.
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.
Warning — what to watch for
Too fatty with no benefit.
If your cat has eaten pine nuts, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
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Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat pine nuts?
Caution. Pine nuts are not recommended for cats.
What happens if my cat eats pine nuts?
Too fatty with no benefit. If your cat has eaten pine nuts, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is pine nuts poisonous to cats?
Caution. Pine nuts are not recommended for cats.
Check pine nuts for another pet