Can cats eat bread?
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A small piece of plain bread occasionally.
Why
A little plain bread is fine for cats but offers nothing they need.
Can cats eat bread, and why?
A little plain bread is fine for cats but offers nothing they need. Cats do not need carbohydrates; offer only a tiny amount as a treat.
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 bread to cats
- •How much: A small piece of plain bread occasionally.
- •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
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat bread?
In moderation. A little plain bread is fine for cats but offers nothing they need.
How much bread can a cat have?
A small piece of plain bread occasionally.
Can cats eat bread 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 bread?
Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
Check bread for another pet