Why only in moderation for cats
Plain baked bread is not toxic to cats, but a cat is a carnivore and has very little need for starch. Bread adds calories but none of the meat protein a cat needs.
The danger is not the bread itself but some of its ingredients, and raw dough. Garlic bread or bread with onion is dangerous, because onion and garlic damage a cat's red blood cells. Raw yeast dough rises in the stomach and produces alcohol, so if a cat eats some it needs a vet urgently.
How to give it
- Give only plain baked bread without garlic, onion, seeds or raisins.
- Give only a small piece.
- Do not give bread with butter or spreads.
- Give it only now and then, not as part of the meal.
What to watch out for
- Garlic bread or bread with onion is dangerous to a cat.
- Raw yeast dough rises in the stomach and produces alcohol.
- Bread with raisins or chocolate is not suitable for a cat.
- Bread adds calories and can contribute to weight gain.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Baked bread
In moderationA small piece of plain baked bread does a cat no harm.
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Raw yeast dough
DangerousRaw yeast dough is dangerous to a cat, because it rises in the stomach and produces alcohol.
What to give instead
- Chicken Yes, plain cooked chicken without bones, skin or seasoning is one of the best treats you can give a cat. Safe
- Eggs Yes, a well-cooked egg, boiled or cooked without fat, is fine for a cat, but it is better not to give a raw egg. Safe
- Pumpkin Yes, plain cooked pumpkin without sugar or spices is harmless to cats and fine as a small treat. Safe
Looking for a treat?
The "Cat treats" category compares prices for 3,884 products across shops. It is a product category, not a recommendation of what to give.