Can cats eat cake?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
High sugar and fat; some cakes contain toxic chocolate or dried fruit.
Why
Cake is sugary and fatty and unsuitable for cats.
Can cats eat cake, and why?
Cake is sugary and fatty and unsuitable for cats. High sugar and fat; some cakes contain toxic chocolate or dried fruit.
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
High sugar and fat; some cakes contain toxic chocolate or dried fruit.
If your cat has eaten cake, 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 cake?
Caution. Cake is sugary and fatty and unsuitable for cats.
What happens if my cat eats cake?
High sugar and fat; some cakes contain toxic chocolate or dried fruit. If your cat has eaten cake, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is cake poisonous to cats?
Caution. Cake is sugary and fatty and unsuitable for cats.
Check cake for another pet