Ginger and white cat looking up at a basket of eggs

Can Cats Eat Eggs?

Yes, cats can eat eggs. Plain, fully cooked eggs can be a safe occasional treat for most cats when served without salt, butter, milk or seasoning. Raw eggs are not recommended because they can contain harmful bacteria, while cooked eggs are generally the safest option.

Applaws UK
06/11/2026

Yes, cats can eat eggs. 

Plain, fully cooked eggs can be a safe occasional treat for most healthy cats. However, the way eggs are prepared makes a big difference. While cooked eggs are generally safe, raw eggs are best to avoid, and some popular egg dishes contain ingredients that aren’t suitable for cats. 

Are Eggs Good for Cats? 

Eggs provide animal protein containing amino acids, as well as fats. Cats need the right balance of amino acids, fats and other nutrients through a complete and balanced diet, so eggs should not replace their usual food. 

As obligate carnivores, cats rely on animal-based nutrients as part of their diet. Plain, fully cooked egg can add a different flavour and texture as an occasional treat for most healthy cats. 

Like any human food, moderation is important.

Can Cats Eat Scrambled Eggs?

Yes, cats can eat scrambled eggs if they’re cooked plainly. 

The key is keeping them simple. 

Scrambled eggs prepared for people often contain ingredients that aren’t suitable for cats, including:

  • Salt 
  • Butter 
  • Milk 
  • Cream 
  • Garlic 
  • Onion

If you’d like to offer scrambled eggs to your cat, cook them without added ingredients and let them to cool before serving. 

A small spoonful is usually enough. 

Many everyday foods contain ingredients that aren’t ideal for cats. If you’re curious about other popular human foods, take a look at our guide on Can Cats Eat Cheese?. 

Can Cats Eat Raw Eggs?

Raw eggs are not recommended for cats. 

Like raw meat and raw fish, raw eggs can contain harmful bacteria that may make your cat sick.  

For most cat owners, cooked eggs are the simpler and safer option. 

If your cat accidentally licks a small amount of raw egg, there’s usually no need to panic. However, raw eggs shouldn’t be intentionally offered as a regular part of their diet. 

Cat reaching for eggs

Can Cats Eat Boiled Eggs?

Yes. 

Plain boiled eggs are one of the simplest ways to offer eggs to a cat. 

Make sure the egg is:

  • Fully cooked 
  • Served plain 
  • Cooled before serving 
  • Cut into small pieces 
  • Avoid adding salt, seasonings or sauces

Can Cats Eat Egg Yolk?

Cats can eat cooked egg yolk in small amounts. 

Many cats find yolks particularly appealing because of their softer texture and richer flavour. 

As with any treat, it’s best offered occasionally as part of a varied diet.

Can Kittens Eat Eggs?

Yes, kittens can eat small amounts of cooked egg. 

However, their main diet should always be a food formulated specifically for kittens, as this provides them with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. 

Treats should only make up a small part of what they eat.

How Much Egg Can a Cat Eat?

Eggs should be treated as an occasional treat rather than an everyday food. 

A small piece of cooked egg once in a while is usually enough. 

Too much egg could reduce your cat’s appetite for their normal meals, making it harder to maintain a balanced diet. 

A Simple Way to Add Variety 

Many cats enjoy exploring different flavours and textures at mealtimes. 

If you’re looking for ways to add variety to your cat’s day, options designed specifically for cats are usually the easiest choice. Applaws recipes are made with natural ingredients and real meat or fish, helping curious cats discover something new in every bowl. 

Explore the full Applaws product range. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Cats Eat Fried Eggs?

Plain fried eggs are unlikely to be harmful in small amounts, but they’re often cooked with oil or butter. Boiled or scrambled eggs prepared without added ingredients are usually a better option.

Can Cats Eat Eggs Every Day?

Eggs should be an occasional treat rather than an everyday food. Cats need a complete and balanced diet to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients they require.

Can Cats Eat Eggshells?

Eggshells are not recommended. They can be difficult to digest and could be a choking hazard if not prepared appropriately.

Adding Eggs to Your Cat’s Diet

For most healthy cats, plain cooked egg can be a safe occasional treat when served without butter, milk, salt or seasoning. 

The key is keeping things simple. Cook the egg thoroughly, offer only a small amount, and make sure it complements your cat’s normal diet rather than replacing it.  

If you’re exploring which human foods are safe for cats, you might also find our guides on “Can Cats Eat Ice Cream?” and “Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter?” helpful.