Why
Eggs are an excellent source of protein. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that egg has been given the highest biologic value of any protein, meaning its amino acids are especially well used by the body, and egg fat supplies arachidonic acid, a fatty acid cats must get from animal foods. PetMD's veterinary guide agrees that cats can eat eggs to add protein to their diet, but not as their only protein source.
The white and the yolk are quite different. Egg white is mostly protein with almost no fat. The yolk is mostly fat with some protein, so it adds far more calories. PetMD's guide warns that the extra fat and calories from yolks raise the risk of obesity, and that fatty meals can cause stomach upset and pancreatitis. For that reason, cooked egg white is the leaner choice.
What to watch out for
- Raw or runny egg, including soft-boiled and sunny-side-up eggs
- Butter, oil, milk or cheese in scrambled eggs and omelets
- Salt, pepper and seasoning mixes
- Onion, garlic or chives in omelets, frittatas and egg fried rice. Onion and garlic are toxic to cats
- Too much yolk, which adds fat and calories and can upset the stomach
- Eggshells used as a calcium supplement without your vet's advice
- Using eggs in place of meals
How to serve it
- Hard-boil or scramble the egg in a dry nonstick pan with nothing added. PetMD's veterinary guide recommends cooking eggs to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), which means firm, not runny.
- Egg white is the leanest option. A little yolk is fine for a slim, healthy cat.
- Let it cool and chop it into small pieces.
- Add a small amount on top of your cat's normal food.
- Ask your vet before making eggs a regular extra, especially for kittens, overweight cats, cats that have had pancreatitis, or cats on a special diet.
How much?
PetMD's veterinary guide suggests about 1 tablespoon of cooked egg white as an extra on top of a cat's normal diet. Whole egg with yolk is richer, so offer less of it and less often.
Why are raw eggs a problem for cats?
The first concern is bacteria. The ASPCA warns that raw meat and raw eggs can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli that are harmful to pets and people alike, and PetMD's veterinary guide notes that Salmonella can infect both cats and their owners, causing vomiting and diarrhea. The Cornell Feline Health Center does not recommend raw diets for cats for similar reasons.
The second concern is biotin. The Merck Veterinary Manual explains that raw egg white contains avidin, which binds biotin and stops it being absorbed. Signs of biotin deficiency include poor growth, skin problems, lethargy and neurologic problems. Cooking destroys avidin, and egg yolk itself is a good source of biotin, so a cooked egg does not carry this risk.
Can kittens eat eggs?
Kittens can have small amounts of plain scrambled or hard-boiled egg, but eggs should never make up a large part of their diet. Kittens need a complete kitten food to get every nutrient they need for growth, and PetMD's veterinary guide recommends checking with your vet before adding eggs.
The same goes for adult cats on homemade diets. Cats can develop disease from nutritional deficiencies, including heart disease, so ask your vet about a veterinary nutritionist rather than building meals around eggs.
What about eggshells?
Eggshells contain calcium and other minerals, but PetMD's veterinary guide points out that most cats find them unappealing and that mineral supplements should only be given under a vet's direction. A complete cat food already balances calcium against phosphorus, so leave shells out unless your vet prescribes them.
Common questions
Are eggs good for cats?
Yes, as an occasional treat. Eggs are an excellent source of protein. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that egg has been given the highest biologic value of any protein, meaning its amino acids are especially well used by the body, and egg fat supplies arachidonic acid, a fatty acid cats must get from animal foods.
Are eggs bad for cats?
Not in sensible amounts. The main thing to watch: raw or runny egg, including soft-boiled and sunny-side-up eggs.
Are cats allowed to have eggs?
Yes. Hard-boil or scramble the egg in a dry nonstick pan with nothing added. PetMD's veterinary guide recommends cooking eggs to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), which means firm, not runny.
Can cats eat scrambled eggs?
Yes, if they are cooked through and made with nothing but egg. Skip the butter, oil, milk, cheese and salt. Milk and cheese add lactose, which many adult cats do not digest well.
Is egg yolk bad for cats?
No, egg yolk is not toxic, and it is a good source of biotin. It is high in fat and calories, though, so give it in small amounts, and ask your vet first if your cat is overweight or has had pancreatitis.
Can I give eggs to a cat that won't eat its food?
Do not rely on eggs or other people food to get a cat eating. The Cornell Feline Health Center advises that any cat that refuses to eat and is losing weight should be examined by a vet, because a poor appetite is often a sign of illness.
Sources
- PetMD. Can Cats Eat Eggs? (Dalal Hares, DVM)
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Nutritional Requirements and Related Diseases of Small Animals.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.
- Cornell Feline Health Center. Feeding Your Cat.
If your cat has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian, an emergency animal hospital or an animal poison control service right away, even if your cat seems fine. Do not try to make your cat vomit at home.