Nuts & seeds
Can dogs eat pistachios?
Not recommended. Pistachios are not toxic like macadamias, but they are fatty and salty, the shells can cause blockages, and mouldy nuts can contain aflatoxin.
Why Fat, salt, shells and possible aflatoxin (mould)
By Maya HartIf your dog ate some
- A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset.
- Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Signs of blockage after swallowing shells
How much, how often
Avoid, or one shelled, unsalted nut.
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories
Serving it safely
- If at all: shelled and unsalted
Dogs and cats, side by side
Dogs In moderation
Not recommended. Pistachios are not toxic like macadamias, but they are fatty and salty, the shells can cause blockages, and mouldy nuts can contain aflatoxin.
How much: Avoid, or one shelled, unsalted nut.
Cats In moderation
Not recommended for cats: fatty, salty and a choking risk.
Can cats eat pistachios?The details
Aflatoxin is produced by moulds that can grow on nuts and grains, and dogs are very sensitive to it. Commercial nuts are tested, but old or damp nuts from the back of the cupboard are best thrown away rather than shared.
Safer treats your dog can have instead
Apples
- Dogs
- Safe
- Cats
- In moderation
Beef
Bell peppers
- Dogs
- Safe
- Cats
- In moderation
Blackberries
- Dogs
- Safe
- Cats
- In moderation
Questions owners ask
Can dogs eat pistachios?
Not recommended. Pistachios are not toxic like macadamias, but they are fatty and salty, the shells can cause blockages, and mouldy nuts can contain aflatoxin.
How much pistachios can a dog have?
Avoid, or one shelled, unsalted nut.
What makes pistachios risky for dogs?
Fat, salt, shells and possible aflatoxin (mould).
What are the signs to watch for in dogs?
vomiting and diarrhoea, signs of blockage after swallowing shells.
What should I do if my dog ate pistachios?
A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
Is pistachios safe for cats too?
Not recommended for cats: fatty, salty and a choking risk.
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