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Can dogs and cats eat macadamia nuts?

Short answer on macadamia nuts: toxic for dogs, safe only with care for cats. See what to watch for and the veterinary sources behind each answer.

One food, two pets

What changes between dogs and cats?

The verdict changes by species: toxic for dogs and caution for cats.

The two answers are not interchangeable. Check the bottom line, named hazard, and signs to watch for your pet below.

  • Safety label differs
  • Bottom line differs
  • Named hazard differs
  • Signs to watch differs
Toxic

Macadamia Nuts safety for dogs

Macadamia nuts cause a well-documented toxic reaction in dogs even though the exact toxin responsible has never been identified.

Toxic principle: unidentified (macadamia nut toxin, mechanism unknown)

Watch for

  • weakness, especially in the hind legs
  • vomiting
  • muscle tremors
  • elevated body temperature
  • joint stiffness
  • difficulty walking

Sources

Reviewed 2026-07-12

Caution

Macadamia Nuts safety for cats

Macadamia toxicity has not been clearly documented in cats, but because the mechanism in dogs is still unknown, vets recommend keeping macadamia nuts away from cats too.

Toxic principle: unidentified; toxicity in cats unconfirmed

Watch for

  • possible vomiting or stomach upset from the high fat content
  • choking or obstruction risk from the hard nut

Sources

Reviewed 2026-07-12

Questions owners ask about macadamia nuts

Can dogs eat macadamia nuts?

Macadamia nuts cause a well-documented toxic reaction in dogs even though the exact toxin responsible has never been identified.

What should I do if my dog ate macadamia nuts?

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 macadamia nuts and dogs?

weakness, especially in the hind legs, vomiting, muscle tremors, elevated body temperature, joint stiffness, difficulty walking. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.

Can cats eat macadamia nuts?

Macadamia toxicity has not been clearly documented in cats, but because the mechanism in dogs is still unknown, vets recommend keeping macadamia nuts away from cats too.

Is macadamia nuts safe for every cat?

Not necessarily. Macadamia toxicity has not been clearly documented in cats, but because the mechanism in dogs is still unknown, vets recommend keeping macadamia nuts away from cats too. Ask your veterinarian first if your cat has an existing health condition or you are unsure.

What symptoms should I watch for with macadamia nuts and cats?

possible vomiting or stomach upset from the high fat content, choking or obstruction risk from the hard nut. 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.

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Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.