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Pantry & Oils

Walnuts: Safe for Dogs and Cats?

CautionDogs

Plain walnuts in small amounts are not acutely toxic, but they are high in fat and moldy walnuts contain a mycotoxin that causes tremors and seizures, so they should be avoided or fed with extreme caution.

Toxic principle: Tremorgenic mycotoxin (penitrem A) in moldy walnuts

Watch for

  • Vomiting
  • Muscle tremors
  • Loss of coordination (ataxia)
  • Elevated heart rate
  • Seizures with moldy walnut ingestion
Full dog guide for walnuts
CautionCats

Walnuts are not classified as toxic to cats, but they are high in fat, a choking hazard, and prone to mold that can cause tremors or seizures, so they should be avoided.

Toxic principle: Tremorgenic mycotoxin (penitrem A) in moldy walnuts

Watch for

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Tremors
  • Seizures with moldy walnut ingestion
Full cat guide for walnuts

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.