Can Cats Eat Macadamia Nuts? Fat, Salt and Why to Avoid Them
Macadamia nuts are famous in the pet world, because they are a known poison for dogs. For cats, the story is less clear. That uncertainty is exactly why cats should be kept away from them.
What we know
In dogs, macadamia nuts cause weakness, particularly in the back legs, tremors, vomiting, fever and sometimes pain, usually within twelve hours. The toxic substance has not been identified. There are few documented cases in cats, and some reports suggest cats may be less sensitive, but there is not enough research to call them safe. Reasonable caution is the best approach.
Other problems with macadamias
- Very high fat. Macadamias are among the fattiest nuts. A rich, fatty snack can trigger vomiting, diarrhea and pancreatitis. See pancreatitis in cats.
- Salt. Roasted macadamias are often heavily salted. See is salt dangerous for cats.
- Choking and blockage. Whole nuts can lodge in the throat or gut, particularly in small cats.
- Hard shells. Unshelled nuts are sharp and tough.
- Mold. Stored nuts may carry aflatoxins. See cat food recalls: how to stay informed for related risks.
- Added ingredients. Chocolate-coated, honey-roasted and spiced varieties add chocolate, sugar, garlic or onion. See is chocolate toxic to cats and are onions and garlic toxic to cats.
Foods that contain macadamia
Cookies, cakes, brittle, ice cream, granola, trail mix, chocolate and nut butters. White chocolate macadamia cookies carry multiple risks. See can cats eat nuts and can cats eat peanut butter.
Signs of trouble
- Vomiting, diarrhea.
- Weakness, wobbliness, trouble walking.
- Tremors.
- Lethargy and hiding.
- Abdominal pain, hunched posture.
- Fever.
- Loss of appetite.
- Drooling.
Signs can appear within hours and last a day or two. Call a vet immediately if you see any. See cat emergency warning signs.
What to do if your cat eats macadamias
- Remove any remaining nuts, and check how many your cat may have eaten.
- Check the product, for chocolate, salt, garlic and other ingredients.
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline straight away, with your cat's weight, the amount and the time.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet instructs you. Cats can be harmed by home remedies.
- Follow instructions. Your vet may advise monitoring at home, or treatment, such as fluids, anti-nausea medicine and observation.
- Keep your cat quiet and warm, and offer water.
See cat poisoning: what to do.
Prevention
- Store nuts and baked goods in closed cupboards.
- Clear plates and snacks after parties and holidays. See holiday hazards for cats.
- Keep bags out of reach, since cats can open them.
- Teach children not to share snacks.
- Keep trash cans closed.
Safer treats
Choose treats made for cats, or small pieces of cooked meat. See healthy cat treats.
Other toxic nuts and foods
Some foods are definitely dangerous to cats, such as grapes, chocolate and xylitol. See are grapes and raisins toxic to cats and is xylitol toxic to cats.
Dogs in the house
If you have a dog, take extra care. Macadamias are clearly dangerous for dogs, and a cat that shares space may encounter them. See how to introduce a cat to a dog for multi-pet households.
The bottom line
Macadamia nuts are not worth the risk for cats. Keep them away, and call your vet if your cat eats any.
Why uncertainty favors caution
Veterinary toxicology relies on case reports and animal studies. Because macadamia toxicity has been documented mainly in dogs, there is little evidence on cats. In practice, that gap means that vets treat the risk seriously rather than assuming cats are immune. Calling a poison helpline is inexpensive and fast, and professionals can tailor advice to your cat's weight and the amount eaten.
The hidden risk of baked goods
Many cases of nut-related trouble involve baked goods rather than plain nuts, because cookies and brownies are easy to reach and tempting to eat. Chocolate chips, raisins, sugar and butter in the same food add risks. If a cat eats part of a cookie, try to work out which ingredients were present and tell your vet.
Keeping a record
If an accident happens, note the time, the product, the quantity and any symptoms, and keep the packaging. This information helps vets decide whether treatment is needed. Take a photo of the label with your phone, since ingredient lists can be hard to read later. Also store the number of your local emergency clinic and a poison helpline on your phone, so you can act quickly.
When to see a vet
See a vet if your cat has eaten macadamias and has any symptoms. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Are macadamia nuts toxic to cats?
Not clearly proven, but avoid them because of unknown risk and high fat.
What are signs of trouble?
Vomiting, weakness, tremors, abdominal pain and lethargy.
What if my cat ate one?
Call your vet for advice, and monitor closely.
Are other nuts safe?
Most are not recommended either.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- ASPCA: people foods to avoid feeding your petsWhich common kitchen foods are unsafe for dogs and cats.
- 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.