Drinks & misc
Can cats eat alcohol?
Ethanol depresses the nervous system; a small amount can be dangerous for a cat.
Portion: None.
The short answer
No, never. Alcohol (beer, wine, spirits, liqueurs, and even raw bread dough, which ferments into alcohol) is toxic to cats. Because cats are so small, a few laps can cause vomiting, wobbliness and dangerously low blood sugar, body temperature and breathing. Contact your vet immediately if your cat has drunk any.
Why it’s dangerous
Ethanol is rapidly absorbed and depresses the central nervous system. It lowers blood sugar, blood pressure and body temperature, and it can cause metabolic acidosis. Cats' small size means a tiny volume is a large dose. Rising yeast dough produces ethanol in the stomach. Hand sanitisers and some mouthwashes also contain alcohol.
How to keep your cat safe
- Never give alcohol.
- Don't leave drinks unattended at parties.
- Keep raw dough, sanitiser and fermenting foods away from cats.
Signs of trouble
- Vomiting
- Wobbliness, disorientation
- Lethargy, weakness
- Slow breathing
- Low body temperature
- Collapse or seizures
Alcohol & cats: FAQ
How much alcohol is toxic to a cat?
Very little. A couple of teaspoons of spirits can be dangerous for an average cat. Don't wait for symptoms: call your vet.
Can cats drink beer?
No. Hops are also toxic to some pets.
Is hand sanitiser dangerous to cats?
Licking a little dried residue is unlikely to matter, but drinking the gel can cause alcohol poisoning.
Related foods
See every food that’s toxic to cats →
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (accessed 2026-09-29)
Last updated 2026-09-29. We are not veterinarians: this guide summarises published veterinary references and is not a substitute for advice from your vet. See our methodology and disclaimer.