Can dogs or cats eat Honey?

September 18, 2023
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s care, treatment, or medical conditions.

Can dogs eat honey?

Can your fuzzy hunny have some honey? Yes! But in moderation.

Honey has several potential health benefits for our four-legged friends. Honey has antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system of dogs. It also has antimicrobial properties that may help fight harmful bacteria and viruses. Some pet owners even give their dogs small amounts of honey as a remedy for seasonal allergies, but the jury's out on whether it actually works.

Remember, "bee" on guard—honey may be "natural," but it's still sugary, and too much sugar can result in health issues and potentially contribute to obesity in dogs.

If your dog eats honey and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, dog insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat honey?

Can felines enjoy some honey? Yes, but "bee" careful not to give too much.

Honey contains antioxidants and has antibacterial properties that work against bacteria and fungi responsible for infections. Additionally, honey has anti-inflammatory effects.

Remember, honey should only be given to cats in small quantities. Despite its health halo, honey is essentially sugar, and too much sugar could lead to obesity and other health problems like diabetes. Also, some cats may be allergic to honey, resulting in digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea.

If your cat eats honey and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, cat insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.

Information Purposes Only

The suggestions offered here are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for pet-specific advice from your veterinarian. Never disregard your vet’s recommendations, or delay in acting on them, based on something you have read on this site. Regardless of how a food is rated here, any food that you give your pet can pose potential health risks, including allergic reactions, choking, or other health conditions such as bloat. Always monitor your pet while they’re eating, and never introduce a new food into your pet’s diet without first consulting your veterinarian. 

Pet Poison Emergency Protocol

If your pet is acting sick, call your regular veterinarian immediately. If your regular veterinarian is closed, call a nearby on-call veterinarian, animal urgent care, or veterinary emergency hospital. If your pet is not acting sick but you think they may have been exposed to a poison, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).

Food Safety Statuses

Safe

Could be given almost daily without harm

Safe in moderation

Not toxic, but should not be given regularly

Unsafe

Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet