Safe when cooked

Can cats eat eggs?

Cats can eat a small amount of fully cooked egg. Scrambled or hard-boiled plain egg is a lean protein topper — raw egg is the version to skip, since it carries salmonella risk and biotin-binding avidin.

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

Updated Aug 3, 2026 Category Nutrition

Better everyday options

Cooked egg is fine occasionally. These treats give a protein reward without cooking anything.

High-protein cat treats

Protein-forward treats cover the meaty-reward job without cracking an egg.

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Freeze-dried cat treats

A freeze-dried topper gives concentrated protein flavor with a longer shelf life than leftover egg.

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Single-ingredient cat treats

One clean ingredient is an easy swap when you want a simple protein snack.

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How much is okay?

A spoon of cooked plain egg is an occasional protein boost, not a meal replacement.

Kitten / small adult
½ teaspoon cooked
Keep it tiny and occasional.
Typical adult
1 teaspoon cooked
Plain preparation only.
Large / big appetite
1–2 teaspoons cooked
Still an extra, not a meal.

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

How to prepare them

  • Cook egg fully — scrambled or hard-boiled, no runny yolk.
  • Skip butter, oil, milk, salt, onion, or chive seasoning.
  • Cool before offering a small spoonful.

Risks & exceptions

  • Raw egg can carry salmonella and interferes with biotin absorption.
  • Buttery or seasoned eggs add unnecessary fat and salt.
  • Too much egg as a habit can unbalance a complete cat diet.

Cooked plain egg is fine in small amounts; raw egg is the part to avoid.

If they ate too many

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

  • Soft stool
  • Mild gas

Call your vet / pet poison line if:

  • Repeated vomiting after raw egg
  • Signs of food poisoning

FAQ

Can cats eat raw eggs?

It's best to skip raw — salmonella and biotin issues make cooked egg the safer routine choice.

Can cats eat egg shells?

There's no real need; ask your vet before using crushed shell as a supplement.

Is egg a good protein source for cats?

A bite of cooked egg is a fine occasional topper, but it isn't a substitute for complete cat food.

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