Can Cats Eat Honey? Tiny Tastes, Sugar and Botulism Concerns
Honey is a classic folk remedy, so it is natural to wonder whether it might help a sniffly cat or serve as a treat. The reality is that honey is simple sugar, and cats gain little from it. In small amounts, it is not dangerous for most healthy adults, but it is not helpful either.
What is honey?
Honey is about 80 percent sugar, mostly fructose and glucose, plus water and traces of enzymes, minerals and antioxidants. In people, small amounts have mild soothing effects on throats. Cats cannot taste sweetness, and have no need for carbohydrates. See can cats eat mango for more on cats and sweetness.
Is honey safe?
Pure, plain honey is not toxic. A lick will not harm a healthy adult cat. But the sugar load can upset a cat's stomach, cause diarrhea and, over time, contribute to weight gain and dental disease. Regular use is not a good idea.
Who should avoid honey
- Kittens, particularly under about a year old, because raw honey can contain spores of Clostridium botulinum, which are a risk for infants. The risk in cats is thought to be low, but it is not worth taking.
- Diabetic cats, since honey raises blood sugar. See diabetes in cats.
- Overweight cats. See how to help an overweight cat lose weight.
- Cats with dental disease. See cat dental disease.
- Cats with weak immune systems, such as those with FeLV or FIV, or on chemotherapy.
- Cats with pancreatitis. See pancreatitis in cats.
Honey as medicine
Some owners use honey for coughs, sore throats or wounds. There is little evidence for cats. A cough, sneezing or breathing trouble can come from asthma, infection or heart disease, and honey will not treat them. See cat coughing causes and why is my cat sneezing. Medical-grade honey is sometimes used by vets on wounds, but home use is not advised. Do not give honey to a cat that is unwell instead of calling the vet.
Hidden hazards in honey products
- Flavored or infused honey, which may contain spices, herbs or alcohol.
- Honey-flavored foods, such as honey roasted nuts, cereals, granola and bars, which may contain nuts, chocolate, raisins or xylitol. See is xylitol toxic to cats and can cats eat nuts.
- Honey drinks and cough syrups, which may contain medicines toxic to cats.
- Honey sticks and gummy treats.
Sticky situation
If your cat gets honey on its fur, it may lick it, and spread it around. Wipe with a warm, damp cloth to prevent matting. See how to bathe a cat.
Better ways to soothe a cat
If your cat is sneezing, offer a warm, quiet room, a clean face and strong-smelling wet food. See feline calicivirus and herpesvirus. If your cat is stressed, use calming strategies. See how to calm an anxious cat.
Treat ideas
Small pieces of cooked chicken or plain fish are better treats. See healthy cat treats.
Manuka and medical-grade honey
Medical-grade honey is sterilized and used by vets on certain wounds, because it has antibacterial properties. That is quite different from table honey, which may contain impurities and is not sterile. Never put honey on your cat's wound without veterinary guidance, since it can attract insects, be licked off and delay proper treatment.
Honey and allergies
Some owners hope that honey will help a cat with allergies. There is no evidence that it does, and honey may contain pollen that triggers reactions. If your cat is itchy, sneezes or has red eyes, see your vet. See cat skin allergies.
Sweeteners and cats
Cats cannot taste sweet, so they do not crave honey in the way people do. If a cat licks honey, it is usually because of the texture or the fat in a product it came with. Other sweeteners are a bigger worry. Xylitol, found in sugar-free products, is dangerous. See is xylitol toxic to cats.
Alternatives for comfort
If your cat has a poor appetite, warm wet food and strong smells help. If it has a sore mouth, see the vet. If it needs a calming treat, use cat-safe options recommended by your vet.
When to see a vet
See a vet if your cat has a cough, sneezing, vomiting or loss of appetite. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Is honey toxic to cats?
Not in tiny amounts for healthy adults, but it is not beneficial.
Can honey soothe a cat's cough?
It is not a proven remedy, and a cough needs a vet check.
Is honey safe for kittens?
It is best avoided, since young kittens are vulnerable to infection.
Can diabetic cats have honey?
No. It raises blood sugar.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- AAFCO: pet foodThe body behind U.S. pet food nutrient profiles and labeling standards.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control CenterToxic plants and foods lists, plus a 24-hour helpline.
- Pet Poison Helpline24-hour poison advice staffed by veterinary toxicologists.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.