Can cats eat date?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Very sugary with no benefit to an obligate carnivore.
Why
Dates are not recommended for cats.
Can cats eat date, and why?
Dates are not recommended for cats. Very sugary with no benefit to an obligate carnivore.
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
Very sugary with no benefit to an obligate carnivore.
If your cat has eaten date, 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 date?
Caution. Dates are not recommended for cats.
What happens if my cat eats date?
Very sugary with no benefit to an obligate carnivore. If your cat has eaten date, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is date poisonous to cats?
Caution. Dates are not recommended for cats.
Check date for another pet