Can cats eat alcohol?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
Even tiny amounts can cause serious illness, organ damage and death.
Why
Alcohol is toxic to cats.
Can cats eat alcohol, and why?
Alcohol is toxic to cats. Even tiny amounts can cause serious illness, organ damage and death.
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
Even tiny amounts can cause serious illness, organ damage and death.
If your cat has eaten alcohol, 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.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat alcohol?
Unsafe. Alcohol is toxic to cats.
What happens if my cat eats alcohol?
Even tiny amounts can cause serious illness, organ damage and death. If your cat has eaten alcohol, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is alcohol poisonous to cats?
Unsafe. Alcohol is toxic to cats.
Check alcohol for another pet