Can cats eat wholemeal bread?
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A small nibble at most occasionally.
Why
A tiny piece of plain wholemeal bread is not harmful but offers little for cats.
Can cats eat wholemeal bread, and why?
A tiny piece of plain wholemeal bread is not harmful but offers little for cats. Empty calories for an obligate carnivore; never give raw dough.
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.
How to feed wholemeal bread to cats
- •How much: A small nibble at most occasionally.
- •How often: An occasional treat, not a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
- •Young pets: Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat wholemeal bread?
In moderation. A tiny piece of plain wholemeal bread is not harmful but offers little for cats.
How much wholemeal bread can a cat have?
A small nibble at most occasionally.
Can cats eat wholemeal bread every day?
It’s best as an occasional treat rather than a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
Can kittens eat wholemeal bread?
Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
Check wholemeal bread for another pet