Nuts
Can dogs and cats eat pine nuts?
Short answer on pine nuts: safe 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: safe for dogs and caution for cats.
The two answers are not interchangeable. Check the bottom line and serving guidance for your pet below.
- Safety label differs
- Bottom line differs
- Serving guidance differs
Pine Nuts safety for dogs
Plain, fresh pine nuts are not considered toxic to dogs, but they are very high in fat and can still cause digestive upset or pancreatitis when overfed.
Safe serving: A very small amount of plain, fresh, shelled pine nut with no salt, oil, pesto, coating, or seasoning.
Pine Nuts safety for cats
Pine nuts should generally not be offered to cats. They are very high in fat and calorie-dense, and nuts add choking, obstruction, and digestive risks.
Questions owners ask about pine nuts
Can dogs eat pine nuts?
Plain, fresh pine nuts are not considered toxic to dogs, but they are very high in fat and can still cause digestive upset or pancreatitis when overfed.
How much pine nuts can I give my dog?
A very small amount of plain, fresh, shelled pine nut with no salt, oil, pesto, coating, or seasoning.. Introduce any new food gradually and watch for stomach upset.
Can cats eat pine nuts?
Pine nuts should generally not be offered to cats. They are very high in fat and calorie-dense, and nuts add choking, obstruction, and digestive risks.
Is pine nuts safe for every cat?
Not necessarily. Pine nuts should generally not be offered to cats. They are very high in fat and calorie-dense, and nuts add choking, obstruction, and digestive risks. Ask your veterinarian first if your cat has an existing health condition or you are unsure.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
More nuts
Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.