Can cats eat avocado?
It's best not to. Avocado is high in fat and contains a toxin called persin, and Cats Protection says eating a lot of it can cause health problems in cats. Avocado is mainly dangerous to birds, horses and some other animals, but it's still not a good food for cats.
Updated:
Why
Sources disagree. Cats Protection lists avocado among foods toxic to cats because of its high fat content and persin, with problems when large amounts are eaten. The ASPCA plant database lists avocado as toxic to horses only and says it is mainly a problem for birds, rabbits, horses and ruminants. We use the stricter view and do not recommend it.
Signs to watch for
- Any sign of being unwell after eating a lot of it (our sources do not list specific signs in cats)
What to do
If your cat ate avocado, contact your vet for advice, especially if a lot was eaten or your cat seems unwell. Note how much your cat ate and when.
Questions and answers
Is avocado poisonous for cats like it is for birds?
The ASPCA says avocado is primarily a problem for birds, rabbits, donkeys, horses and ruminants. Cats Protection still advises against it for cats because of its fat and persin.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Cats and human foods — Cats Protection
- Avocado (Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants) — ASPCA
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic cat: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.