Can Cats Eat Raw Eggs?

🚫 Not Recommended

✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit

⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just ate something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.

No. Raw eggs bring salmonella risk and a protein that blocks vitamin absorption in cats.

Why it’s a problem

Raw egg white contains avidin, which binds biotin (vitamin B7) and can cause deficiency over time, and raw eggs in general can carry salmonella and E. coli. Cooking destroys both problems, which is why fully cooked eggs are safe while raw ones are not.

How to serve it safely

Always serve eggs scrambled or boiled with nothing added. Keep cake batter, cookie dough and homemade mayonnaise out of feline reach.

Warning signs to watch for

Vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy within days from bacterial infection; chronic raw feeding can cause a dull coat and skin problems from biotin deficiency.

When to call the vet

Call your vet if a cat eats raw egg and develops vomiting, bloody diarrhea or fever.

Common questions

Is raw egg used in homemade cat diets safe?

Only pasteurized egg products, used under vet guidance. Shell eggs from the carton are a different risk level entirely.

More foods for cats

Salmon✅ SafeYes, when fully cooked and unseasoned. Salmon is a nutritious fish most cats enjoy.Tuna⚠️ In ModerationOccasional small amounts only — tuna should be a treat, never a meal.Cow’s Milk🚫 Not RecommendedBetter to skip it. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant and milk gives them stomach upset.Garlic☠️ ToxicNo. Garlic is poisonous to cats — even more potent per gram than onion.Cooked Eggs✅ SafeYes, fully cooked and plain. Eggs are a protein-rich treat cats usually enjoy.Cheese⚠️ In ModerationSmall bites are usually fine, but many cats cannot digest dairy well.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away.