Meats & proteins
Can cats eat eggs?
Fully cooked egg is a high-quality protein. Raw egg carries salmonella risk.
Portion: One to two teaspoons of cooked egg, a few times a week at most.
The short answer
Yes — cooked eggs are one of the better human foods for cats: rich in complete protein and amino acids. Scrambled or hard-boiled with nothing added is ideal. Avoid raw egg, and skip butter, oil, salt, onion and cheese. Keep portions small so they don't displace complete cat food.
Why the verdict
Egg protein is highly digestible and suits a carnivore's needs. Raw egg risks Salmonella and E. coli, and raw egg white contains avidin, which binds biotin; cooking eliminates both concerns.
How to prepare it
- Cook thoroughly — scrambled, boiled or poached.
- No salt, butter, oil, milk or seasonings.
- Cool and chop before serving.
- Shells aren't needed; discard them.
Signs of trouble
- Vomiting or diarrhoea (raw or seasoned egg)
- Itchy skin or ear inflammation (rare egg allergy)
Eggs & cats: FAQ
Can cats eat raw eggs?
Not recommended due to bacterial risk and avidin in raw whites. Serve eggs fully cooked.
Can cats eat scrambled eggs?
Yes, if cooked plain — no butter, milk, salt or cheese.
How much egg can a cat eat?
One or two teaspoons at a time. A whole egg is roughly 70 kcal — a third of many cats' daily needs.
Related foods
See every food that’s toxic to cats →
Sources
- Cornell Feline Health Center — Feeding Your Cat (accessed 2026-09-29)
- 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.