Can dogs or cats eat peanuts?

June 27, 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 unsalted peanuts?

Peanut butter often features in dog treats. But have you ever thought about feeding your dog a whole peanut? Good news for your doggo: peanuts are a safe and healthy treat in moderation. Peanuts contain protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can be healthy for your dog when added to their diet in appropriate quantities.

It's important to remember that any peanuts you give to your dog should be plain and unsalted. And your dog should only eat peanuts in small portions since they're high in fat; excessive consumption of fatty foods can lead to weight gain or even pancreatitis in extreme cases. Also, make sure you discard the shells before feeding peanuts to your pup, as they can cause digestive issues or even choking.

As always, consult with your veterinarian before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet! If your dog eats peanuts (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 unsafe foods, pet insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat unsalted peanuts?

OK, so it's not too common for a cat to beg for peanuts. But if you do find yourself in this unusual situation, here's good news: Unsalted and unseasoned peanuts are generally safe for cats to eat.

Peanuts are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that can be beneficial to feline health. Just steer clear of peanuts that have any added flavorings or salt, and make sure they're unshelled to avoid choking hazards.

Remember that your cat should only eat peanuts in moderate amounts since they're high in fat content. And as obligate carnivores, cats need to derive most of their nutrients from meat. So if you do feed them peanuts, make sure to do so in small enough quantities that these crunchy treats not displacing meat-based foods in your cat's diet.

As always, before introducing a new food item into your pet's diet, consult with your veterinarian first! If your cat eats peanuts (or any other 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 unsafe foods, pet insurance can 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