Can cats eat gummy sweets?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
High sugar, a choking risk, and sugar-free types may contain toxic xylitol.
Why
Gummy sweets are unsuitable for cats and can be dangerous.
Can cats eat gummy sweets, and why?
Gummy sweets are unsuitable for cats and can be dangerous. High sugar, a choking risk, and sugar-free types may contain toxic xylitol.
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, a choking risk, and sugar-free types may contain toxic xylitol.
If your cat has eaten gummy sweets, 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 gummy sweets?
Unsafe. Gummy sweets are unsuitable for cats and can be dangerous.
What happens if my cat eats gummy sweets?
High sugar, a choking risk, and sugar-free types may contain toxic xylitol. If your cat has eaten gummy sweets, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is gummy sweets poisonous to cats?
Unsafe. Gummy sweets are unsuitable for cats and can be dangerous.
Check gummy sweets for another pet