Nuts & seeds
Can cats eat peanut butter?
Not recommended. Peanut butter is sticky and fatty and cats have no need for it.
Why Xylitol in some brands; fat
If your cat ate some
- Check the label for xylitol (birch sugar).
- If present, treat it as an emergency and call your vet.
How much, how often
A lick at most.
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories
Serving it safely
- Choose one with only peanuts and salt
- Check the label for xylitol or birch sugar
Dogs and cats, side by side
Dogs In moderation
Yes, if it has no xylitol. Plain peanut butter is a favourite treat for filling toys, but it is high in fat.
How much: A teaspoon for a small dog, a tablespoon for a large dog.
Can dogs eat peanut butter?Cats In moderation
Not recommended. Peanut butter is sticky and fatty and cats have no need for it.
How much: A lick at most.
Safer treats your cat can have instead
Questions owners ask
Can cats eat peanut butter?
Not recommended. Peanut butter is sticky and fatty and cats have no need for it.
How much peanut butter can a cat have?
A lick at most.
What makes peanut butter risky for cats?
Xylitol in some brands; fat.
What should I do if my cat ate peanut butter?
Check the label for xylitol (birch sugar). If present, treat it as an emergency and call your vet.
Is peanut butter safe for dogs too?
Yes, if it has no xylitol. Plain peanut butter is a favourite treat for filling toys, but it is high in fat.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
More foods for cats
Macadamia nuts
Cashews
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation
Pistachios
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation
Peanuts
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation