Alcohol
Can dogs and cats eat alcohol?
Short answer on alcohol: toxic for both dogs and cats. See what to watch for and the veterinary sources behind each answer.
If your pet ate this, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.
Call ASPCA: (888) 426-4435One food, two pets
What changes between dogs and cats?
Dogs and cats both have a toxic verdict.
The label matches, but the two answers are not interchangeable. Check the bottom line for your pet below.
- Bottom line differs
Alcohol safety for dogs
Because dogs are so much smaller than people, even a small amount of alcohol can cause dangerous intoxication.
Toxic principle: ethanol (central nervous system depressant)
Watch for
- vomiting
- disorientation
- loss of coordination
- lethargy
- low body temperature
- slowed breathing
- coma
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline: Alcohol Is Toxic to Pets
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Toxicoses From Alcohols in Animals
Reviewed 2026-07-12
Alcohol safety for cats
Cats are extremely sensitive to alcohol, and a small lick of a spilled drink can be enough to cause serious intoxication.
Toxic principle: ethanol (central nervous system depressant)
Watch for
- vomiting
- disorientation
- loss of coordination
- lethargy
- low body temperature
- slowed breathing
- coma
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-12
Questions owners ask about alcohol
Can dogs eat alcohol?
Because dogs are so much smaller than people, even a small amount of alcohol can cause dangerous intoxication.
What should I do if my dog ate alcohol?
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
What symptoms should I watch for with alcohol and dogs?
vomiting, disorientation, loss of coordination, lethargy, low body temperature, slowed breathing, coma. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
Can cats eat alcohol?
Cats are extremely sensitive to alcohol, and a small lick of a spilled drink can be enough to cause serious intoxication.
What should I do if my cat ate alcohol?
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
What symptoms should I watch for with alcohol and cats?
vomiting, disorientation, loss of coordination, lethargy, low body temperature, slowed breathing, coma. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.