Can cats eat crisps?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
High salt and fat plus possible onion or garlic flavouring are harmful.
Why
Crisps are far too salty and fatty for cats.
Can cats eat crisps, and why?
Crisps are far too salty and fatty for cats. High salt and fat plus possible onion or garlic flavouring are harmful.
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 salt and fat plus possible onion or garlic flavouring are harmful.
If your cat has eaten crisps, 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 crisps?
Unsafe. Crisps are far too salty and fatty for cats.
What happens if my cat eats crisps?
High salt and fat plus possible onion or garlic flavouring are harmful. If your cat has eaten crisps, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is crisps poisonous to cats?
Unsafe. Crisps are far too salty and fatty for cats.
Check crisps for another pet