Get Advice from a Vet

ASK A VET
Veterinarian, DVM, MBA
Get free advice on diet, health, fitness, and wellness questions within 3 business days via email.

Can Cats Eat Bread?

Ask the Vet
Lindsay Butzer, DVM
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Lindsay Butzer
Back to results
Enter Your Information All fields are required

While efforts are made to answer all questions as quickly as possible, if an immediate answer is required or if your pet is in need of urgent or emergency care, contact your pet's veterinarian immediately.

*Please note: Questions submitted and the answers will appear on our website as a benefit to all pet owners. Please make sure not to include any personal information in the box where you enter your question.

Ask the Vet
Lindsay Butzer, DVM
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Lindsay Butzer
Thank you! Your question has been submitted.

You will receive an answer from Dr. Lindsay and our vet/tech team as soon as possible, usually the same day.

All answers are provided for informational or educational purposes only, and are intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your pet's veterinarian.

It may be necessary to consult your pet's veterinarian regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations with respect to your pet's symptoms or medical condition.

Close
Ask the Vet
Lindsay Butzer, DVM
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Lindsay Butzer
Oops! Your question has not been submitted.

An error has occurred, please reload the page and try again.

Close
Ask the Vet
Lindsay Butzer, DVM
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Lindsay Butzer
Got questions? Ask Dr. Lindsay & our Vet Team:

While efforts are made to answer all questions as quickly as possible, if an immediate answer is required or if your pet is in need of urgent or emergency care, contact your pet's veterinarian immediately.

Do these answer your question?
Showing of | See All
Have another question, or can’t find your answer?
Submit your question
We're Sorry!

There is no answer related to your question

Can’t find your answer?
Submit your question
Category

Cat looking at piece of bread on table

Does your cat beg for a bite of your baguette? Do they moan and meow when you eat sandwiches, bagels and rolls?
As it turns out, cats can eat bread, but it's not the best thing for them. Here's what you should know before letting your cat sample your sourdough:

Is Bread Toxic To Cats?
Most breads contain simple ingredients like flour, water, milk, eggs, yeast and olive oil. None of these ingredients are particularly harmful to cats in small amounts.
So, if your cat accidentally gets their paws on your loaf, they will most likely be just fine. At worst, your cat will experience acute indigestion.
If your cat eats a substantial amount of bread, or is showing any symptoms of discomfort, or you're otherwise worried, see your veterinarian for assistance.
If you're unsure of whether or not your cat needs an emergency vet visit, you can talk to your vet over the phone or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

When Can Bread Be Dangerous To Cats?
While most bread is harmless to cats, there are a few exceptions.
For example, if your cat gets into uncooked bread dough, it can actually expand within the warm, moist environment inside their stomach.
This can lead to bloating and stomach distention, and, in the worst case scenario, cause a potentially life-threatening digestive blockage.
What's more, as the yeast ferments, it actually releases alcohol, which can lead to alcohol poisoning.
If your cat eats any amount of bread dough, seek immediate veterinary help.
Garlic, shallots, and onions are toxic to cats. They can cause anemia and in large doses, organ failure. If your cat eats garlic bread or any other kind that may contain these seasonings, see your vet.

Is Bread Good For Cats?
Though most bread is harmless to your cat, it's not the best choice for a snack.
That's because cats are strict carnivores. They need to get most of their nutrients from meat-based sources. Even so, cats are able to digest carbohydrates found in kibble and canned cat foods.
Regardless of what your cat eats as their primary diet, they will not benefit nutritionally from the addition of carb-rich, low-protein bread. While it's not harmful as an occasional snack, too much bread can put your cat on an accelerated path to obesity and diabetes.
In summary: while bread is not bad for your cat, it's not good for them either.
Your cat is likely curious about your bread because it's a novelty, but they'd benefit more from healthy cat treats or a fresh food snack such as meat, eggs or berries.