Nuts
Can dogs and cats eat macadamia nuts?
Compare the dog and cat answers together, then open the full guide for the pet you are asking about.
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?
The verdict changes by species: toxic for dogs and caution for cats.
The two answers are not interchangeable. Compare the bottom line, named hazard, and signs to watch below, then use the full guide for your pet.
- Safety label differs
- Bottom line differs
- Named hazard differs
- Signs to watch differs
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
- ASPCA: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants, Macadamia Nut
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Macadamia Nut Toxicosis in Dogs
Reviewed 2026-07-12
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
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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