Can cats eat honey?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Cats cannot taste sweetness and gain nothing from it; the sugar can upset their stomach.
Why
Honey is not recommended for cats.
Can cats eat honey, and why?
Honey is not recommended for cats. Cats cannot taste sweetness and gain nothing from it; the sugar can upset their stomach.
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
Cats cannot taste sweetness and gain nothing from it; the sugar can upset their stomach.
If your cat has eaten honey, 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 honey?
Caution. Honey is not recommended for cats.
What happens if my cat eats honey?
Cats cannot taste sweetness and gain nothing from it; the sugar can upset their stomach. If your cat has eaten honey, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is honey poisonous to cats?
Caution. Honey is not recommended for cats.
Check honey for another pet