Macadamia Nuts

Q: Can cats eat Macadamia Nuts? — CatToxic

Toxic: Never — causes paralysis and serious illness. Macadamia nuts cause a distinctive and poorly understood syndrome in cats. While most commonly documented in dogs, cats should also avoid macadamia nuts. Even a small amount can cause muscle weakness, especially of the hind limbs, along with hyperthermia and vomiting. The toxin is unknown but the syndrome is well-documented in veterinary literature.

Q: Symptoms to watch for

weakness in hind legs, vomiting, tremors, elevated temperature (hyperthermia), lethargy, inability to stand

Toxic

Verdict

Never — causes paralysis and serious illness.

Toxic principle: unknown toxin (syndrome primarily documented in dogs; few confirmed cat cases)

Source: ASPCA

If your cat ate this

Cats hide symptoms — don't wait and see. Even small amounts of certain substances can be fatal to a cat. Act fast.

1. Call your veterinarian immediately
2. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
3. Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (consultation fee applies)

A consultation fee may apply for poison control hotlines.

Verdict

Macadamia nuts cause a distinctive and poorly understood syndrome in cats. While most commonly documented in dogs, cats should also avoid macadamia nuts. Even a small amount can cause muscle weakness, especially of the hind limbs, along with hyperthermia and vomiting. The toxin is unknown but the syndrome is well-documented in veterinary literature.

Symptoms to watch for

• weakness in hind legs
• vomiting
• tremors
• elevated temperature (hyperthermia)
• lethargy
• inability to stand

What to do

Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435). Supportive care — fluids, rest, temperature monitoring — is typically needed.

📞 US ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435

Related foods

Peanut Butter

Caution

OK if xylitol-free — always check the label.

Nuts

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