Can cats eat raw eggs?
Also called: raw egg, uncooked egg, egg white raw
Caution
Can carry Salmonella and contain an enzyme that blocks a vitamin.
No. Raw eggs can carry bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, and they contain an enzyme that interferes with how cats absorb certain vitamins.
When it's a problem
- Raw eggs contain avidin, which destroys biotin (a B vitamin). Cooking destroys avidin.
- The vitamin problem can lead to skin and coat problems.
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Raw meat and raw eggs can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli that can be harmful to pets and humans alike.
Raw eggs contain an enzyme that can interfere with absorption of certain vitamins, leading to skin/coat problems.
Read "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Raw meat and raw eggs can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli that can be harmful to pets and humans alike.
Raw eggs contain an enzyme that can interfere with absorption of certain vitamins, leading to skin/coat problems.
Read "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
Checked 9 October 2026
ASPCA
(Please note: Do not give your pet raw eggs.)
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
Merck Veterinary Manual
such as avidin found in raw eggs, which destroys biotin
some raw forms foods contain antinutritional factors that are destroyed by cooking
Read "Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals"
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Raw eggs contain an enzyme that can interfere with absorption of certain vitamins, leading to skin/coat problems.
Read "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
Checked 9 October 2026