Cats can technically eat peanut butter, but it is not recommended for several reasons. While peanut butter is not inherently toxic to cats, it offers no nutritional benefits and can pose various health risks.
Potential Risks of Peanut Butter for Cats
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Peanut butter can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain in some cats due to its high fat content and the fact that it is not a natural part of their diet[1][3][7].
- Choking Hazard: The thick and sticky consistency of peanut butter can make it difficult for cats to swallow, potentially causing a choking hazard[2][7].
- Allergies: Cats can have peanut allergies, which can lead to symptoms ranging from itchy skin and ear infections to life-threatening anaphylaxis[3][7].
- Toxic Additives: Some peanut butters contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to pets, including cats[3][4][5]. Always check the label for harmful ingredients.
- High Calorie Content: Peanut butter is calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain and obesity, which can lead to other health issues such as diabetes[1][3][7].
When Peanut Butter Might Be Used
Peanut butter can occasionally be used to hide medication if your cat likes it and if there are no better alternatives available. However, this should be done sparingly and under veterinary guidance. Only a very small amount (1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon) should be used to avoid exceeding their daily caloric intake[1][10].
Conclusion
While a small amount of peanut butter is unlikely to harm your cat, it is best to avoid giving it to them regularly. Cats are obligate carnivores and derive their necessary nutrients from meat, not plant-based foods like peanut butter. If you want to give your cat a treat, opt for those specifically formulated for feline dietary needs.
Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food into your cat’s diet to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their health and nutritional requirements[1][3][6].
Sources:
[1] Chewy
[2] YouTube
[3] Dutch
[4] PetMD
[5] The Spruce Pets
[6] USA Today
[7] The Rescue Vets
Citations:
[1] https://be.chewy.com/nutrition-pet-diet-tips-can-cats-eat-peanut-butter/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hh2WSLopqF4
[3] https://www.dutch.com/blogs/cats/can-cats-eat-peanut-butter
[4] https://www.petmd.com/cat/nutrition/can-cats-eat-peanut-butter
[5] https://www.thesprucepets.com/can-cats-eat-peanut-butter-6374248
[6] https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2023/09/13/can-cats-eat-peanut-butter/70612975007/
[7] https://www.therescuevets.com/education-resources/cat-care-tips/can-cats-eat-peanut-butter/
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/Pets/comments/p3juzt/can_cats_eat_peanut_butter_is_there_any_hidden/
[9] https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-nutrition/what-can-cats-eat/can-cats-eat-peanut-butter
[10] https://www.pawlicy.com/blog/can-cats-eat-peanut-butter/
[11] https://untamed.com/blogs/nutrition/can-cats-eat-peanut-butter
