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Can Cats Eat Eggs | Safe and Healthy Egg Options

Can Cats Eat Eggs | Nutritional Benefits and Risks

Eggs are packed with nutrients and taste delicious in any preparation, playing a key role in many beloved recipes. It's amazing how versatile this simple ingredient can be, but is it wise to share this tasty treat with our cats?

If you're one of the many pet owners thinking about letting your cat eat eggs for breakfast but still wondering, can cats eat eggs? Here are all the answers you need about feeding your cat eggs. Learn how to feed your cat safely, the nutritional benefits eggs contain, and the health benefits for your cat. Eggs are easy to prepare and can be a healthy addition to your cat's diet.

Cat smelling a bowl of boiled eggs.

Can cats eat eggs?

The short answer is yes, cats can eat eggs, but only in moderation and always cooked. Feeding your cat raw eggs is not recommended, as raw eggs can make your cat sick. While eggs contain many nutrients and amino acids beneficial to cats, they are also high in fat, which can be detrimental if your cat needs to lose weight. Before introducing eggs to your cat's diet, consult your vet to ensure you keep your feline friend healthy.

Cats are obligate carnivores and require a balanced diet to stay healthy. Feeding too much egg can make your cat eat less of their complete and balanced diet, which contains the essential nutrients they need. It's best to offer eggs in moderation, as an occasional treat. Rather than feeding a whole egg at once, just feed a small piece of cooked egg, such as plain scrambled egg or egg white, alongside their normal food. This way, your cat can enjoy the nutritional benefits of animal protein in eggs without compromising their diet. Eggs are easy for cats to digest and can help keep their skin shiny and healthy.

How much egg can cats eat?

In general, it’s best not to feed too much egg to your cat, as this may cause them to eat less of their complete and balanced diet, which contains the beneficial nutrients they need. It’s always best to offer eggs in moderation, as an occasional treat. Rather than feeding a whole egg at once, just feed a small piece of cooked egg, such as egg white, alongside their normal food.


Cats are notorious for making us think they need more food than they do, often turning extra calories into fat. Feeding your cat a balanced diet is important to keep them healthy. Before you feed your cat egg, always consult your vet first. Feeding raw egg to your cat can cause salmonella poisoning and other health issues. While cooked eggs are easy to digest and contain valuable amino acids and animal protein, excessive consumption can lead to conditions like pancreatitis. Make sure your cat's diet remains balanced and healthy by including only small, cooked portions of egg occasionally.

A cat looking for dinner with his eyes on a boiled egg.

Are eggs good for cats?

There is no definitive yes or no answer. Whether eggs are good for your cat depends on your pet’s overall health. Some cats react differently to foods compared to others. Cooked eggs are considered a safer option for your cat, but before you feed your cat eggs, always consult your vet first. Feeding your cat raw eggs can lead to salmonella poisoning and other health issues. While cooked eggs are easy for cats to digest and provide valuable animal protein, they should be given in moderation. Excessive consumption can cause pancreatitis. Always prioritize a balanced diet to keep your cat healthy.

Egg allergy in cats: is it real?

Food allergies can appear unexpectedly, and pets may develop allergies or intolerances even to familiar ingredients. Although egg allergies are uncommon in cats, it is still possible for your cat to have a reaction after eating a seemingly harmless bite of cooked egg.


Watch for symptoms of egg allergy in cats. The most common ones include:

  • Excessive grooming
  • Itchy skin
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your vet. If eggs are identified as the cause of your cat’s discomfort, avoid feeding eggs in the future. While eggs are easy to prepare and can be part of a healthy diet, it's crucial to ensure they are safe for your cat to eat.

Cat licking his lips after eating eggs.

Can cats eat raw eggs?

No, it is not recommended to offer your cat raw eggs. Although cats may naturally prey on birds and their nests, there are several reasons why raw eggs should not be part of your pet’s diet.


Eating raw eggs increases the risk of bacterial infections, as raw eggs can contain E. coli and can cause salmonella poisoning. By cooking the eggs, you ensure these harmful bacteria are destroyed, eliminating the threat to your pet. These bacteria can also infect humans, providing another reason to minimize risk by avoiding raw eggs for your cat.


Additionally, raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin, which can interfere with the absorption of biotin, a vitamin crucial for maintaining healthy skin and coat. Consuming too much avidin over time could lead to biotin deficiency, posing a health risk for your cat. The best rule of thumb when it comes to eggs for cats is that cooked is always better than raw.

Can Cats Eat Cooked Eggs?

Cats can eat scrambled or boiled eggs without salt or seasonings. However, be mindful of adding too much fat to your cat's diet. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving your cat eggs.


Scrambled or boiled eggs with yolks have a higher fat content, increasing the calorie content and your cat’s risk of obesity. Additionally, fatty meals can lead to gastrointestinal upset and pancreatitis.


Feeding only boiled or scrambled egg whites reduces these risks. Egg whites contain almost no fats, making them a better source of protein for your cat.

Can cats eat egg yolks?

In short, no. Egg yolks are high in fat, which means your cat may consume too many calories in addition to their balanced diet, potentially leading to weight gain. Excess calorie intake can also cause gastrointestinal issues for your cat.

Interested in cat nutrition but unsure what to feed your feline friend? Find out: Cat feeding & Cat Nutrition

Can cats have boiled eggs?

Yes, cats can enjoy a piece of boiled egg as an occasional treat. You can offer it on its own or mix it with their favorite cat food. Ensure the egg is hard boiled and remove the shell to prevent it from becoming a choking hazard. While seasoning enhances the flavor for humans, it’s best to keep salt and pepper away when serving eggs to your cat.

cat about to eat a hard boiled egg.

Can cats eat scrambled eggs

Yes, cats can enjoy the occasional piece of scrambled egg added to their usual cat food. Eggs are rich in nutrients and align with a feline diet of mostly animal protein. Ensure the eggs are fully cooked without any seasoning, fats, oils, garlic, or onions. Offering scrambled eggs in moderation provides a tasty and nutritious treat for your cat. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your cat’s diet.


Interested in cat nutrition? Find out: What Can Cats Eat?

Can cats eat eggshells?

Eggshells contain vitamins and minerals, but cats can obtain these nutrients from more appropriate food sources. If your cat happens to eat some eggshell, don’t worry it usually won't cause much harm. However, large pieces can pose a choking hazard. To avoid any risk, it's safer not to feed eggshells to your cat.

Can cats eat egg fried rice? 

No, rice itself is not toxic to cats, but egg fried rice often contains onion, which is harmful to them. Onions can damage a cat’s red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia, a serious condition caused by the destruction of red blood cells. This can result in symptoms like weakness, lethargy, and breathing difficulties. Therefore, it's important to avoid feeding your cat egg fried rice or any food containing onions to ensure their safety and well being.

Can cats eat egg mayonnaise?

Cats can try mayonnaise, but it should not be included in their regular diet. While a small taste is generally safe, excessive consumption can be harmful to their overall health. Mayonnaise contains high levels of salt, which can lead to dehydration and other health issues in cats if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, the high fat content can contribute to weight gain and related health problems. Therefore, it's best to offer mayonnaise only as an occasional treat and in very small amounts.

Cat laid down picture from above, looks like a friend egg.

Can kittens eat eggs?

Kittens can also enjoy the occasional piece of nutrient packed egg, either hard boiled or scrambled. Once you have approval from the vet and ensure the eggs are thoroughly cooked, they can be a healthy treat for a growing kitten. Just remember to avoid adding any extra ingredients like cheese, garlic, or salt to keep it safe for your pet.

How Much Egg Can a Cat Eat?

Feeding small amounts (about 1 tablespoon) of egg whites in addition to your cat’s normal diet can help supplement their protein intake.


However, cats often need less food than we think, and they are good at converting extra calories into fat or extra pounds. It is crucial that cats are fed a completely balanced diet. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding eggs to your cat’s diet.


Cats are also susceptible to diseases related to nutritional deficiencies, such as cardiac disease. If you are considering a home cooked diet for your cat, consult a veterinary nutritionist who can help formulate a balanced diet.

What is the best way to feed your cat eggs?

If you feed your cat egg whites, make sure they are boiled or scrambled without any extra seasoning or salt. Allow the egg to cool to room temperature before serving. Add only a small amount to your cat’s food in the morning or evening.


Curious about other human foods your cat can eat? Explore various articles on the best and worst foods for cats, including whether cats can eat watermelon?


FAQ

1. How to cook eggs for cats?

To cook eggs for cats, boil or scramble them without salt or seasoning. Ensure the eggs are thoroughly cooked, as raw eggs can be harmful. Let them cool to room temperature before feeding. Serve small portions, like a tablespoon of egg whites, to supplement your cat’s balanced diet. Cooking eggs this way is easy and provides the nutritional benefits of eggs. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods.

2. How to make scrambled eggs for cats?

To make scrambled eggs for cats, whisk the eggs and cook them in a non stick pan without salt, seasoning, oils, or fats. Ensure they are fully cooked, then let them cool to room temperature. Serve small portions, like a tablespoon, to supplement your cat’s balanced diet. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods.

3. Why do cats protect eggs?

Cats may protect eggs due to their natural instincts to safeguard potential food sources and their tendency to be curious and playful with small objects. The shape and texture of eggs can intrigue cats, prompting them to guard or play with them. Additionally, cats sometimes exhibit nurturing behaviors, which might lead them to treat eggs gently as if they were kittens.

4. What are the benefits of feeding eggs to cats?

Eggs provide protein, vitamins, and minerals that can supplement a cat's diet.

5. Can eggs help with a cat's coat and skin?

Eggs contain nutrients that can benefit a cat’s skin and coat health, but they should be given in moderation.

6. Can cats eat poached eggs?

Poached eggs can be given to cats if they are fully cooked and prepared without any added ingredients.

Kelly Rushton with her Cat Eddie Stafford.

Kelly Rushton

Meet Kelly Rushton, a dedicated cat enthusiast and proud owner of Feline Fancy Ltd. With a heart as big as her household, Kelly is the loving mum to 10 charming Ragdoll cats. In her world, felines reign supreme, and she brings professionalism and warmth to everything she does. Through her blog, Kelly shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences, offering insights into cat care, behavior, and the joy of living alongside these majestic creatures.


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