The Short Answer: No.
While pistachios are not poisonous to cats (like chocolate or grapes are), you generally should not feed them to your cat.
There is no health benefit for them, and there are several risks that can make your cat sick. If your cat accidentally eats one plain pistachio kernel, they will likely be fine, but you should not make it a habit.
The 3 Main Risks of Pistachios
Even though the nut itself isn’t toxic, the things that come with it can be dangerous.
1. The Shells (Choking Hazard)
The biggest danger is the shell. If a cat tries to eat a pistachio with the shell on, or finds a discarded shell on the floor:
- Choking: The hard shell can get stuck in their throat.
- Blockage: If swallowed, the shell can block their intestines. This is a life-threatening emergency that often requires surgery.
- Internal Damage: The sharp edges of a shell can tear the lining of the stomach or digestive tract.
2. High Fat Content
Cats are carnivores, but their bodies are not designed to digest the high levels of vegetable fat found in nuts.
- Stomach Upset: Eating just a few nuts can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- Pancreatitis: In serious cases, eating high-fat foods can inflame the pancreas. This is a painful and dangerous condition that requires veterinary care.
3. Seasonings and Salt
Most store-bought pistachios are roasted and salted.
- Salt: Too much salt is bad for a cat’s kidneys and can lead to dehydration or sodium poisoning.
- Flavorings: Some pistachios are flavored with garlic or onion powder. Both garlic and onion are toxic to cats and can damage their red blood cells.
What If My Cat Already Ate One?
If your cat grabbed a pistachio off the floor, follow these steps:
- Check the Shell: Did they eat the shell, or just the nut? If they ate the shell, call your vet immediately.
- Check the Ingredients: Was it plain, or did it have garlic/onion seasoning? If it had garlic or onion, call your vet.
- Monitor Them: If they ate a single, plain nut without the shell, just watch them for the next 24 hours.
Watch for these symptoms:
- Vomiting (especially if they can’t keep water down)
- Diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
- Lethargy (acting tired or hiding)
If you see any of these signs, take them to the vet.
Better (Safe) Treats for Cats
If you want to give your cat a snack, stick to foods that are safe and healthy for them:
- Plain cooked chicken (no bones, no seasoning)
- Plain cooked turkey
- Small pieces of cooked fish (like salmon)
- Commercial cat treats
Conclusion
Keep the bowl of nuts out of reach. While a single pistachio likely won’t kill your cat, the risk of choking on a shell or getting sick from the fat and salt just isn’t worth it.
