Can cats eat alcohol?
Quick Answer
No
Alcohol is extremely harmful and potentially lethal to cats. Even small amounts can cause severe health issues.
What Is It?
Alcohol, in the context of beverages, is a psychoactive substance that has depressant effects. It is found in drinks such as beer, wine, and spirits.
How to Tell
Signs of alcohol poisoning in cats include unsteady movements, confusion, drowsiness, vomiting, seizures, and in severe cases, coma or death.
Why It Can Be Risky
Feeding alcohol to cats poses serious health risks.
- Damage to the liver and brain: Cats’ bodies are not equipped to process alcohol, leading to potential liver and brain damage.
- Depression of the central nervous system: This can lead to difficulty breathing, tremors, and abnormal blood acidity.
- Death: In severe cases, alcohol poisoning can be fatal.
Safe Alternatives
Instead of alcohol, provide your cat with plenty of fresh water. If you want to give your cat a treat, consider specially formulated cat milk or catnip tea.