Can Dogs Eat Walnuts?
Find out if Walnuts is safe for dogs and cats.
Think your pet ate something toxic?
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 or view emergency guide
Walnuts
Plain English walnuts are not as dangerous as black walnuts, but they are high in fat and can cause gastrointestinal upset. The biggest concern is mold, which can produce tremorgenic mycotoxins leading to seizures.
Cats should avoid walnuts due to high fat content and the risk of mold. Safer treats include carrots and blueberries.
Is Walnuts Safe for Dogs?
English walnuts are not highly toxic, but moldy walnuts can cause seizures.
Is Walnuts Safe for Cats?
Not recommended; high fat and possible mold risk.
Preparation Notes
Only plain, fresh, shelled walnuts. Never feed moldy or black walnuts.
Recommended Amount
Avoid feeding walnuts when possible; one small piece very rarely.
How Often?
Avoid.
Symptoms to Watch For
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- tremors
- seizures
- weakness
What If My Pet Ate Walnuts?
Contact your vet immediately if moldy walnuts were eaten or if tremors occur.
Health Condition Considerations
Even if Walnuts is generally safe, it may not be appropriate for pets with certain medical conditions. Always check with your veterinarian if your pet has been diagnosed with any of the following.
Chronic kidney disease
For Dogs: Limit · For Cats: Limit
Contains phosphorus and protein, which are typically restricted in chronic kidney disease.
Pancreatitis
For Dogs: Avoid · For Cats: Avoid
High fat intake can trigger or worsen pancreatitis.
Obesity
For Dogs: Limit · For Cats: Limit
Calorie-dense; excess can contribute to weight gain.
Food allergies
For Dogs: FoodDetail.consult_vet · For Cats: FoodDetail.consult_vet
Nut/seed ingredients are common allergens; reactions are individual.
Liver disease
For Dogs: Limit · For Cats: Limit
High fat content can be hard on a compromised liver.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
For Dogs: Limit · For Cats: Limit
High fat can exacerbate GI inflammation.
Hyperlipidemia
For Dogs: Avoid · For Cats: Avoid
High fat content worsens hyperlipidemia.
Gastrointestinal sensitivity
For Dogs: Limit · For Cats: Limit
High fat may irritate a sensitive gastrointestinal tract.
Safe Alternatives
Sources
Vet's Note
PetPilot provides general information for educational purposes. While we reference authoritative veterinary organizations, this page has not been individually reviewed by a veterinarian for your specific pet. Individual animals may react differently based on age, weight, breed, health conditions, and amount consumed. Always consult your veterinarian or a poison control center for personalized advice, especially if your pet is ill, injured, pregnant, nursing, or on medication.