Can Cats Eat Nuts? Almonds, Walnuts, Pistachios and More
Nuts are a healthy snack for many people, but cats are not small people. Their bodies are built for meat, and nuts bring a mix of small problems that can add up to bigger ones. Here is what to know if your cat steals a nut from the bowl.
Why nuts are a poor choice for cats
High fat. Nuts are calorie dense. A handful of almonds has well over 150 calories, which is most of an average cat's daily requirement. Rich foods can cause vomiting and diarrhea, and a fatty meal can trigger pancreatitis in a vulnerable cat.
Hard to digest. Cats lack the digestive adaptations for plant fats and fiber, and nuts can pass through unchanged.
Choking and blockage. Whole nuts or large pieces can lodge in the throat or intestine, particularly in small cats and kittens.
Salt and seasoning. Roasted nuts are often salted, spiced or coated with garlic, onion powder, chocolate, honey or sugar. Salt can cause thirst and sodium poisoning in extreme cases, and garlic and onion are toxic, as explained in are onions and garlic toxic to cats.
Mold. Nuts stored in warm, humid conditions can grow molds that produce toxins. Walnuts and pecans are especially prone to this.
Quick reference
| Nut | Notes |
|---|---|
| Almonds | Not toxic, but hard, fatty and a blockage risk |
| Peanuts and peanut butter | Not toxic, but fatty, see peanut butter |
| Walnuts and pecans | Mold toxins possible, avoid |
| Macadamia | Toxic to dogs, unclear for cats, avoid |
| Pistachios | Salty, shells are a hazard |
| Cashews | High fat, avoid |
| Chestnuts, cooked plain | Not toxic, but offer little |
| Nutmeg | Toxic in large amounts, keep away |
Nuts in other foods
Cats are more likely to meet nuts inside something else. Trail mix may contain chocolate and raisins, both dangerous, as described in chocolate toxicity and grapes and raisins. Baked goods, granola bars and candy may include xylitol, which is described in is xylitol toxic to cats. Always consider the whole product.
What to do if your cat ate nuts
- Estimate the amount and type. Note whether the nuts were plain, salted or flavored, and whether any shells were swallowed.
- Check for other ingredients. Look for chocolate, raisins, xylitol or seasoning on the packaging.
- Watch for signs. Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, abdominal pain, straining or a lack of appetite can appear over the next day or so.
- Call your vet if you see signs, or if your cat ate many nuts, flavored nuts, moldy nuts or whole shells. Our US vet directory helps you find emergency care.
Signs of a blockage
A blockage is more likely with whole nuts or shells. Persistent vomiting, no stool, a painful belly, repeated retching and refusal to eat are all warning signs and need prompt veterinary attention. See our emergency warning signs guide.
Safer snack ideas
Cats do not need snacks beyond their complete food. If you want to offer something occasionally, tiny pieces of plain cooked chicken or cooked egg fit a carnivore much better. Keep treats to about 10 percent of daily calories, which our cat food amount calculator can help you plan.
Why portion size matters for small bodies
An average adult cat weighs about 10 pounds, so a handful of nuts is equivalent to a person eating a very large meal of pure fat. Cats also cannot readily vomit large objects, so hard pieces tend to move on into the intestines. Even a nut that is technically safe becomes a risk when the animal is small and the piece is hard.
Nuts around the house
Cats find nuts in unexpected places:
- Bird feeders and seed mixes brought indoors
- Holiday bowls of mixed nuts in the shell
- Baking supplies on low shelves
- Granola, cereal and snack bars
- Craft materials such as chestnuts and acorns used in decorations
Acorns and some wild nuts can be toxic, so avoid decorations made from them. If your cat chews decorations, see toxic houseplants for cats for related hazards.
Keeping nuts out of reach
- Store nuts and snack mixes in sealed containers in cupboards.
- Keep bags off the floor and out of reach of climbing cats.
- Remind guests not to share snacks.
- Check holiday bowls and decorations, which may include nuts in the shell.
For other foods, use the free cat food and plant safety checker. If you are unsure whether something is safe, ask your veterinarian.
Frequently asked questions
Are almonds toxic to cats?
Almonds are not considered poisonous, but they are hard to digest, high in fat and can cause stomach upset or a blockage. Skip them.
Are macadamia nuts dangerous for cats?
Macadamia nuts are known to be toxic to dogs. The risk in cats is less clear, but they are high in fat and best avoided.
Can cats eat walnuts?
They are not recommended. Walnuts can grow mold that produces dangerous toxins, and they are fatty and hard to digest.
What if my cat ate trail mix?
Trail mix often includes raisins, chocolate and salted nuts, which are dangerous. Call your vet or a poison helpline and describe the ingredients.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- Cornell Feline Health CenterFeline health information from Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
- 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.