Can pets eat honey? 🍯
Here’s whether honey is safe for each kind of pet, based on established veterinary guidance.
Can dogs eat honey?
In moderationA tiny amount of honey is fine for healthy adult dogs.
Risk: Very high in sugar, so only a small amount occasionally; not suitable for diabetic or overweight dogs.
Portion: A small dab of honey as an occasional treat.
Full guidance: can dogs eat honey? →Can cats eat honey?
CautionHoney is not recommended for cats.
Risk: Cats cannot taste sweetness and gain nothing from it; the sugar can upset their stomach.
Full guidance: can cats eat honey? →Can rabbits eat honey?
UnsafeHoney is not suitable for rabbits.
Risk: Pure sugar with no fibre, which can cause serious digestive problems.
Full guidance: can rabbits eat honey? →Can guinea pigs eat honey?
UnsafeHoney is not suitable for guinea pigs.
Risk: Pure sugar that can cause digestive upset and weight gain.
Full guidance: can guinea pigs eat honey? →Can hamsters eat honey?
CautionHoney is very sugary and sticky, so best avoided for hamsters.
Risk: The sugar can lead to obesity and diabetes and it can clog cheek pouches.
Full guidance: can hamsters eat honey? →Worried your pet has eaten too much?
Contact your vet straight away, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). This page is general guidance based on veterinary sources and isn’t a substitute for professional advice — amount, preparation and your pet’s health all matter.
Related foods
Sources
Our guidance on whether pets can eat honey draws on established UK and US veterinary and welfare organisations. Individual pets, quantities and preparation vary — always confirm with your own vet.