Yellow: with caution
Boiled egg is a good protein supplement for cats, raw egg is not. Veterinarian Dalal Hares writes at PetMD that eggs provide protein and fat, but should not be a cat's only source of protein.
Why the traffic light is yellow
Egg white consists almost entirely of protein, the egg yolk mainly consists of fat. The yellow therefore contains more calories, which increases the risk of obesity, gastrointestinal problems and pancreatitis. According to PetMD, one tablespoon of cooked egg whites added to regular food is sufficient as a protein supplement.
Raw is tricky for two reasons. First, raw eggs can carry salmonella, which makes cats and people sick. PetMD recommends cooking eggs to an internal temperature of about 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Second, raw egg whites contain avidin. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, this protein binds the vitamin biotin so that it is not absorbed. The ASPCA notes that this can affect the skin and coat. A real biotin deficiency is very rare, but boiled eggs avoid the problem entirely.
What you should pay attention to
- Cook through: Hard boiled or as scrambled eggs without milk, butter, salt and spices.
- Let it cool down: Cut it into small pieces and add it as a topping to your usual food.
- Eggshell only on advice: It contains calcium, but according to PetMD you should only feed minerals according to veterinary instructions.
- Kitten: Small amounts of boiled egg are possible, but do not replace complete kitten food. Ask the practice beforehand.
- Egg nog and eggnog are taboo: Alcohol is dangerous for cats.
What to do if your cat has eaten a raw egg?
A little raw egg usually doesn't cause any problems. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or fever in the next few days and call the vet's office if anything like this occurs. If your cat has eaten eggnog or leftover eggnog, this is a reason to call immediately because of the alcohol.
If poisoning is suspected, go to the vet immediately or to the veterinary emergency service.
Treats and extras are part of the daily ration, so subtract them from the regular food. The cat food calculator.
shows you how much your cat needs in totalRead more
Quellen, abgerufen am 05.11.2026: PetMD, Can Cats Eat Eggs? Are Scrambled or Raw Eggs Good for Cats? (Dalal Hares, DVM); Merck Veterinary Manual, Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals; ASPCA, People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center); PetMD, 13 Holiday Foods That Are Dangerous to Cats (Natalie Stilwell, DVM)
