Can cats eat cooked bones?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
They splinter and can cause choking or internal injuries.
Why
Do not give cooked bones to cats.
Can cats eat cooked bones, and why?
Do not give cooked bones to cats. They splinter and can cause choking or internal injuries.
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
They splinter and can cause choking or internal injuries.
If your cat has eaten cooked bones, 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 cooked bones?
Unsafe. Do not give cooked bones to cats.
What happens if my cat eats cooked bones?
They splinter and can cause choking or internal injuries. If your cat has eaten cooked bones, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is cooked bones poisonous to cats?
Unsafe. Do not give cooked bones to cats.
Check cooked bones for another pet