Can cats eat raw eggs?
No, don't give cats raw eggs. Raw eggs may carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, which can make both cats and people ill, and raw egg white contains a protein that can block a vitamin.
Updated:
Why
Raw eggs may contain harmful bacteria and parasites and could mean food poisoning for cats and humans alike. Raw egg white also contains avidin, which binds the vitamin biotin and stops it being absorbed. Cooking food thoroughly protects pets from salmonella.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
- Fever
- Not wanting to eat
- Lethargy
What to do
If your cat licked a little raw egg, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, fever or not eating, and call your vet if any appear. Wash your hands and any surfaces the egg touched.
Questions and answers
Are cooked eggs OK instead?
Cooked egg is a different matter: PDSA says eggs can suit pets, but only in moderation. Cook it fully and serve it plain.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Cat Nutrition Tips — ASPCA (no date shown)
- Cats and human foods — Cats Protection
- Oops! My cat drank the eggnog. What do I do? — VCA Animal Hospitals (no date shown)
- Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual (S. L. Sanderson; reviewed 2023-11, updated 2024-09)
- How To Choose Safe Holiday Foods for Pets — VCA Animal Hospitals (no date shown)
- Avoiding Raw Food in Cats — VCA Animal Hospitals / CAVN (updated 2025-03-07)
- Cat-friendly pancake recipe — PDSA (2024-02-02)
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.