Skip

Can cats eat cashews?

Cats should not eat cashews. They are calorie-dense, often salted, and unnecessary for an obligate carnivore that does better with meaty treats.

Not medical advice — general pet-safety info only. Confirm with your vet before changing your cat’s diet.

Updated Aug 4, 2026 Category Nutrition

Alternatives to cashews for cats

Nuts are people snacks. These treats are safer rewards.

Meat-based cat treats

Meaty rewards beat nut mixes.

View

Soft cat treats

Soft treats without hard nuts.

View

Healthy cat treats

Everyday treats instead of bar snacks.

View

How much is okay?

Do not plan cashew servings.

Kitten / small adult
None planned
Keep it tiny and occasional.
Typical adult
None planned
Plain preparation only.
Large / big appetite
None planned
Still an extra, not a meal.

Rule of thumb: treats of all kinds should stay under ~10% of daily calories.

How to prepare them

  • Keep nut bowls away.
  • Skip flavored and honey-roasted mixes.
  • Offer a cat treat instead.

Risks & exceptions

  • High fat.
  • Salt and seasonings.
  • Choke risk for whole nuts.

Cashews are a people nut snack, not a cat treat.

If they ate too many

If they ate more than intended, watch for stomach upset and changes in behavior.

  • Soft stool

Call your vet / pet poison line if:

  • Repeated vomiting
  • A large salty portion

FAQ

Can cats eat one cashew?

Still a skip.

Are unsalted cashews OK?

Still fatty and unnecessary.

Can cats eat cashew butter?

Usually skip — dense fat with little upside.

Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from product links. Safety guidance is editorial and may change — verify with your veterinarian for your cat.