Can Dogs Eat Cat Food?

If you have both dogs and cats in your household, you’ve probably had to deal with a dog trying to steal some cat food. Many dogs seem to find it irresistible. But can dogs eat cat food or is it dangerous? It depends.  

While a small amount of cat food will not cause health problems for most dogs, it’s not recommended to feed dogs cat food.  

Ahead, we discuss what happens if a dog eats too much cat food; the difference between dog food and cat food; and more. 

What’s the Difference Between Dog Food and Cat Food?

While dog food and cat food may look similar, they’re actually quite different.  

Most cat foods contain significantly more protein and fat than comparable dog foods. Requirements for certain amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals also vary.  

Here are a few of the more important differences between dog food and cat food, according to the Association of American Feed Control Officials’ (AAFCO) nutrient profiles for adult dogs and cats: 

Dogs and cats have distinct nutritional requirements. Dogs are omnivores. They can get all the nutrients they need by eating ingredients derived from other animals or certain plants. Cats, on the other hand, are obligate carnivores. Their nutritional needs can only be met when they eat ingredients derived from other animals.

It's important that your dog eats a nutritionally-balanced food that's appropriate for their life stage and size, from a vet-recommended dog food brand like Royal Canin, Hill's, or Purina Pro Plan.

Is It Safe for Dogs To Eat Cat Food?

Cat food is not an ideal food for dogs. If you are concerned your dog is not eating, have your veterinarian examine them to rule out underlying medical conditions, and ask your vet for dietary recommendations. 

Your vet might prescribe medications to help stimulate your dog’s appetite or to help with nausea. Or they may recommend a therapeutic diet for dogs recovering from an illness, injury, or surgery who need extra calories and protein. 

Is It Bad for Dogs To Eat Cat Food?

Cat food can be especially bad for some dogs, including those who: 

• Need to be on a low-fat or moderate-protein diet 

• Have a history of pancreatitis, hyperlipidemia, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or a sensitive stomach 

Unhealthy weight gain can also become a problem if dogs eat cat food for a long time. But any dog could become sick after eating a lot of cat food. The exact amount that could cause problems depends on factors like the type of cat food, the size of the dog, and their current diet and health status.  

Symptoms to look out for include: 

• Abdominal discomfort 

• Vomiting 

• Diarrhea 

• Poor appetite 

What To Do If Your Dog Eats Cat Food

Call your veterinarian for advice if your dog is acting sick after eating cat food.  

If, however, your dog seems to feel fine, simply monitor them for vomiting, diarrhea, or other signs that a problem might be developing.  

Dogs who have eaten a lot of cat food (more than what a typical serving of food would be for your dog) should skip their next meal before resuming their normal feeding schedule. 

How To Prevent Your Dog From Eating Cat Food

Here are some tips for keeping your dog away from cat food: 

• A door prop is a simple and inexpensive way to keep a door open just wide enough to let cats through while keeping all but the smallest dogs out.

• Many types of cat doors are available. If your dog is roughly the same size as your cat, consider an electronic cat door that will only open when the pet who is wearing the correct tag approaches. 

• Consider a microchip or RFID Feeder. These feeders are activated by your pet’s microchip or RFID collar tag and only open when they approach.

• As long as your cat likes to climb (and your dog doesn’t!), try feeding your cat on an elevated surface, like a tall cat tree. 

If your cat eats at specific times (rather than having food left out), you can use a crate or playpen to keep your pets separated during meals.