Yellow: with caution
Better not. A single nut is rarely an emergency, but it is not healthy for your cat. Fat, size and additives make nuts a bad treat.
Why the traffic light is yellow
The ASPCA Poison Control Center writes: Nuts such as almonds, pecans and walnuts contain a lot of oil and fat. This can cause vomiting and diarrhea and, in some animals, possibly pancreatitis. Veterinarian Natalie Stilwell adds to PetMD that nuts are difficult to digest. Large pieces can block the gastrointestinal tract.
According to PetMD, things aren't any better for peanuts: lots of calories for no benefit, plus a choking hazard, especially with the shell on. Macadamia nuts are poisonous to dogs. It is not proven whether this also applies to cats. The veterinarian-certified Pumpkin guide still advises against it because of the high fat content.
Cats are strict carnivores. They don't need anything from nuts that their food doesn't already provide better.
What you should pay attention to
- Salted and seasoned: According to the ASPCA, salt in large quantities can trigger thirst, vomiting and diarrhea and even seizures.
- Mouldy walnuts: According to CliniTox from the University of Zurich, moldy walnuts and walnut shells can contain a fungal toxin that triggers tremors and convulsions. This is described in dogs. Clear away fallen fruit from under the walnut tree.
- Nut Mixes: Trail mix often contains raisins, and these can cause kidney failure in cats, according to PetMD.
- Pastry and desserts: Nuts are found in cakes, cookies and casseroles, often with sugar and spices.
What to do if your cat has eaten nuts?
Note which nuts they were and how many. A single natural nut usually goes through without any consequences. Observe your cat over the next few days: If it vomits, doesn't eat, has a stomach ache or doesn't defecate, it could be due to an intestinal obstruction. If she is shaking or seems unsteady on her feet, drive off immediately.
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. A small piece of cooked chicken is a better treat.
Frequently asked questions
Are walnuts poisonous to cats? Fresh walnuts are mainly fatty and difficult to digest. According to CliniTox, moldy walnuts may contain a fungal toxin that has caused tremors and convulsions in dogs.
Can cats eat peanuts? Better not. According to PetMD, they only provide empty calories, and whole peanuts, especially with the shell on, can get stuck.
Read more
- Can cats eat peanut butter?
- Can cats eat grapes and raisins?
- What can cats eat? The overview with traffic lights
Quellen, abgerufen am 05.11.2026: 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); PetMD, Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter? (Sandra C. Mitchell, DVM); Pumpkin Pet Insurance, What Human Food Can Dogs and Cats Eat? A Vet-Reviewed Guide; CliniTox, Universität Zürich, Pflanzengifte: Juglans sp.; PetMD, What Can't Cats Eat? 8 Toxic Foods for Cats (Jennifer Coates, DVM)
