Why cats can have it
Eggs are rich in easily absorbed protein and fat, so they suit a carnivorous cat. A cooked egg can be a small, occasional extra to the usual food, but not a replacement for it.
Raw eggs are not suitable for a cat. They can carry salmonella and other bacteria, and raw egg white contains a substance that stops the vitamin biotin from being absorbed. Cooking breaks this substance down and kills the bacteria. The egg should not be salted or cooked with butter, onions or seasoning.
How to give it
- Boil the egg well, or cook it without fat or seasoning.
- Peel off the shell and cut it into small pieces.
- The first time, give very little and watch how your cat feels.
- Give it only now and then, as an extra to the usual food.
What to watch out for
- A raw egg can carry salmonella.
- Raw egg white stops the vitamin biotin from being absorbed.
- Eggs with salt, butter, onion or garlic are not suitable for a cat.
- Too many eggs add calories and can unbalance a cat's food.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Cooked egg
SafeA well-cooked egg with no seasoning is fine in small pieces.
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Raw egg
Not safeA raw egg can carry salmonella, and raw egg white stops biotin from being absorbed.
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Shell
Not safeHard pieces of shell can injure the mouth or upset digestion.
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
- Beef Yes, well-cooked lean beef without seasoning is a good treat for a cat; just trim off the fat and take out any bones. Safe
- Fish Yes, in moderation: plain cooked fish with the bones removed makes a good treat, but it should not replace a complete cat food. In moderation
Looking for a treat?
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