Can Cats Eat Eggs? Are Scrambled, Yolk or Raw Eggs Good for Cats?
Since cats are obligate carnivores, the diet of an obligate carnivore must be high in animal proteins and fats to provide their specific nutritional requirements. Because of this, many inquisitive cat parents wonder: can cats eat eggs? Eggs are a universally known, protein-packed food, which may—or may not—be a healthy treat or supplement for your cat. Besides considering how to prepare eggs for cats— whether egg white, yolk, or both — you should take into consideration what is safe to give to your cat. The questions — can cats eat scrambled eggs, can cats eat egg yolk, or can cats have scrambled eggs — are all good questions that deserve thought and consideration for their health and safety.
Can Cats Eat Eggs?
Yes, cats can eat eggs, but there are very important precautions you should take in order to ensure their safety and health. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, vitamins (like B12, riboflavin), minerals (like selenium), and healthy fats — with all of these nutrients contributing to your cat. These benefits will support things such as muscle maintenance, healthy skin and coat health, and energy levels. But of greatest importance, eggs should only be offered as an occasional treat/supplement — not as a main meal. Cats require a balanced commercial cat food diet specific to their needs as an obligate carnivore. Eggs can offer great nutrients in moderation, but eggs are never a substitute for complete cat food that meets all nutritional needs.
Are Scrambled Eggs Good for Cats?
Yes, scrambled eggs can be a delightful dish for cats. Cooked eggs have a soft structure which is easy to break down, and have a high concentration of protein as well as various nutrients that support a cat’s wellbeing.
However, a plain version of scrambled eggs that has no salt, butter, oil, spices, or any seasoning is the only way to properly prepare eggs for cats.
When feeding scrambled eggs:
- Serve only in small portions, make sure it is only less than 10% of your cat’s daily calories.
- Introduce gradually, it’s better to start with a very small amount.
- Monitor for reactions, such as a digestive upset and/or allergy symptoms.
The right way, scrambled eggs can be a nutritious and safe occasional treat while fitting in your pet’s diet.
Can Cats Eat Egg Yolk?
Yes! Cats can eat egg yolk, but in moderation. Egg yolk is full of nutritious value containing healthy fats, vitamins A,D, E, and nutritional value your cat’s body needs. It is suggested that you always cook yolk completely before feeding it to your cat. It is always a possibility that uncooked products that are similar to humans, may contain bacteria such as salmonella, and E. coli. Egg yolk has some nutritional value and healthy fat, yolk is more concentrated than egg white. Cats can eat egg white and yolk without concern, but yolk is typically more saturated than egg white. Egg yolk has more energy and additional nutritional value than egg white. Egg yolk is a possibility included in your pets diet in moderate amounts.
Nutritional Benefits and Safety of Different Egg Forms for Cats
| Egg Form | Safety for Cats | Nutritional Benefits | Preparation Tips | Notes |
| Scrambled Eggs | Safe if cooked, no additives | High protein, easy to digest | Cook without salt, butter, seasoning | Treat-sized portions only |
| Boiled Eggs | Safe if fully cooked | Rich in protein and vitamins | Peel shell before feeding | Use small amounts |
| Egg Yolk | Safe if cooked thoroughly | Healthy fats, vitamins, minerals | Cook well to avoid bacterial risk | Nutrient-rich part of egg |
| Raw Eggs | Not safe | Risk of bacteria, avidin effects biotin | Avoid feeding raw eggs | Can cause illness |
| Eggshells | Safe if boiled & crushed | Calcium source | Boil, dry, grind finely | Use sparingly |
Can Cats Eat Eggshells?
Yes, cats can eat eggshells safely, if they are prepared correctly. Crushed, boiled eggshells are a natural source of calcium; calcium helps in maintaining healthy bones and teeth. However, you need to hard boil the eggshell first, because raw eggshells may contain bacteria. In addition, you should grind it to a fine powder/personally I prefer it pulverized because it makes sense when I worry about their choking, digestion, or simply chewing it too long and wearing down their teeth. Adding a tiny pinch of finely crushed pulverized eggshells would be a calcium supplement to your cat’s food – however, be sure to check with your veterinarian first before adding to your cat’s diet.
How Much Egg Should You Feed Your Cat?
- Occasional Treat Only:You should never replace your cat’s daily meals with eggs. They can be given, however, as an occasional treat. Per PetMD, small amounts (about 1 tablespoon) of cooked egg whites can add to your cat’s protein intake.
- Proper Portion Size: You should serve about 1 to 2 teaspoons of cooked egg per serving for most cats. You can modify this amount for your cat’s activity level, size, and calorie needs. Hill’s Pet Nutrition recommends cooked eggs as a great way to add variety to your cat’s meal routine. (1)
- Caloric Consideration: Limit feeding your cat eggs to no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. This helps maintain a balanced diet and avoid nutritional deficiencies.
- Cooking Method: Only serve eggs, prepared in any method, to your cat. Do not offer your cat raw eggs, raw eggs can have various types of salmonella or E. coli. If your cat should become sick and eat contaminated raw meat, then it can lead to vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy. With heating, all bacteria are inactive. Both PetMD and Hill’s Pet Nutrition also state that cats cannot eat raw eggs.
- Balanced Diet Maintenance: Cats can consume eggs because eggs do have a substantial amount of protein, amino acids and vitamins. It is good for your cat to have eggs occasionally and in addition to their balanced nutrition cat food. Eggs should not replace offering your cat a complete and balanced cat food diet. If you offer your cat an egg you do need to ensure that the primary source of nutrition is from a good quality commercial cat food that meets your cat’s specific needs.
Signs of Egg Allergies in Cats
Cat egg allergy symptoms can be a little bit variable, but can include skin irritation, such as, itching, redness, rashes, or hair loss, ear infections with frequent scratching or shaking of the head, and of course, digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, the list of symptoms does go on a little. If you see any of these signs after your cat eats eggs it is important that you immediately stop feeding him/her eggs and contact your vet for an appointment. Early intervention is key to minimize further discomfort and to keep your cat’s diet safe and healthy.
Other Healthy Treat Alternatives for Cats
Healthy treat alternative options for cats include safe human foods like cooked lean meats (chicken, turkey, or beef) [and] also some vegetables (cooked) like steamed carrots or peas. Small amounts can be given as treats but should not make up a large portion of the diet. Healthy treats are safe as occasional snacks. Treats, either human food or commercially available snacks, should never substitute for a complete and balanced diet of cat food which provides all the essential nutrients for your cat’s overall health!
Final Thought
In conclusion, eggs can be a healthy occasional treat for cats, as long as they are prepared right (fully-cooked and no seasoning). Raw eggs are not safe to feed cats and should always be avoided due to the risk of bacteria along with interference from enzymes with nutrient absorption. Be sure to monitor your cat for any unwanted reactions after including eggs in their diet and call your veterinarians if you have any doubts or questions about egg consumption in your cat. For more tips about cat nutrition and care, check out Meow Care Hub—your go-to source for keeping cats happy and healthy.
FAQs
Q1: Can cats eat eggs?
A: Yes, cats can eat eggs, but only if they are fully cooked. Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients but should be fed as an occasional treat, not a full meal.
Q2: Can cats eat scrambled eggs?
A: Yes, scrambled eggs are safe for cats when cooked plain without any added salt, butter, or seasonings. They are easily digestible and a good source of protein.
Q3: Can cats eat egg yolk?
A: Yes, cats can eat egg yolks as long as they are cooked thoroughly. Egg yolks are nutrient-dense, providing healthy fats and important vitamins.
Q4: Can cats eat raw eggs?
A: No, raw eggs are unsafe for cats because they can contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, and raw egg whites contain avidin, which interferes with biotin absorption.
Q5: Can cats have scrambled eggs regularly?
A: Scrambled eggs can be given occasionally as a treat, but they should not replace a balanced cat food diet. Treats like eggs should make up less than 10% of a cat’s daily calories.
Q6: Can cats eat eggshells?
A: Cats can eat eggshells if they are boiled and crushed into a fine powder, as they provide a good source of calcium. However, eggshells must be prepared safely to avoid contamination.
Q7: How much egg can I feed my cat?
A: Eggs should be given in small, treat-sized portions and should not exceed 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake to maintain a balanced diet.
Q8: What are the signs of an egg allergy in cats?
A: Signs include skin irritation, itching, ear infections, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice any of these, stop feeding eggs and consult your veterinarian.
