Can cats eat mushrooms?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Wild mushrooms can be highly toxic; never let cats eat foraged mushrooms and check with your vet if unsure.
Why
Wild mushrooms are dangerous for cats; shop-bought are low risk.
Can cats eat mushrooms, and why?
Wild mushrooms are dangerous for cats; shop-bought are low risk. Wild mushrooms can be highly toxic; never let cats eat foraged mushrooms and check with your vet if unsure.
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
Wild mushrooms can be highly toxic; never let cats eat foraged mushrooms and check with your vet if unsure.
If your cat has eaten mushrooms, 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 mushrooms?
Caution. Wild mushrooms are dangerous for cats; shop-bought are low risk.
What happens if my cat eats mushrooms?
Wild mushrooms can be highly toxic; never let cats eat foraged mushrooms and check with your vet if unsure. If your cat has eaten mushrooms, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is mushrooms poisonous to cats?
Caution. Wild mushrooms are dangerous for cats; shop-bought are low risk.
Check mushrooms for another pet