Can dogs or cats eat mushrooms?
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Can dogs eat mushrooms?
Mushrooms are generally safe for dogs to eat, as long as they're not the toxic kind (which aren't safe for you either). Some types of mushrooms contain healthy nutrients like fiber, protein, minerals, antioxidants, and various vitamins including B vitamins and vitamin D. These vitamins and nutrients play important roles in energy metabolism, immune function, bone health, and digestion.
Again, it's important to note that certain types of mushrooms are toxic to dogs and should be avoided at all costs. Don't feed them wild mushrooms, ever. Some wild mushrooms, such as the Amanita phalloides (also known as the death cap mushroom) can cause severe liver damage or even death in dogs and humans alike. So if you're going to feed your dog mushrooms, always stick to commercially grown varieties from reputable sources.
And don't feed your pet your pet mushrooms that have been seasoned or cooked in butter. Salt and other seasonings are unhealthy for dogs, and some seasonings — like anything derived from garlic or onions — are downright toxic.
As always, before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet, consult with your veterinarian first. If your dog eats mushrooms (or any food) 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 any unsafe foods, pet insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.
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Can cats eat mushrooms?
Yes, cats can eat mushrooms — but only commercially grown varieties from reputable sources, and only in moderation. Cats should NEVER eat wild mushrooms, some of which can be toxic or even deadly. For example, the Amanita phalloides, also known as the death cap mushroom, can cause organ failure and death in cats and humans alike.
But some types of safe, store-bought mushrooms contain healthy nutrients like fiber, protein, minerals, antioxidants, as well as vitamin D and B vitamins. These nutrients can aid in metabolism, digestion, immune function, and bone health.
Cooked mushrooms are easier for cats to digest than raw ones. And remember, you should never feed your cat seasoned mushrooms, or mushrooms cooked in butter, as salt, butter, and other seasonings are unhealthy for cats. Some seasonings, like those derived from garlic or onions, are even toxic.
Also, keep in mind that you should only feed your cat mushrooms in moderation, as an occasional treat. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need to get most of their nutrients from meat-based foods.
As always, before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet, consult with your veterinarian first. If your cat eats mushrooms (or any food) 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 any unsafe foods, pet insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.
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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
Food Safety Statuses
Could be given almost daily without harm
Not toxic, but should not be given regularly
Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet