In homes with both cats and dogs, food bowls often get mixed up. So, can cats eat dog food? A stolen bite now and then is usually not a problem. However, dog food should never replace cat food. This guide explains why.
Disclosure: Cat Nutrition Guide may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
Why Cats and Dogs Need Different Food
Dogs are omnivores. By contrast, cats are obligate carnivores. In other words, cats rely on nutrients found mainly in animal tissue. As a result, their food must be built differently.
Dog food is designed around a dog’s needs. It often contains less protein and fat than cat food. More importantly, it may lack nutrients that cats cannot make on their own.
Nutrients Cats Need That Dog Food May Lack
- Taurine: Supports heart and eye health. Cats must get it from food. See our guide to taurine for cats.
- Arachidonic acid: An essential fatty acid that cats cannot make enough of.
- Vitamin A: Cats cannot convert beta-carotene from plants into vitamin A, so they need the ready-made form.
- Niacin: Cats need more of this B vitamin than dogs do.
- Protein: Cats have a higher protein requirement overall.
For a wider look, read our article on essential nutrients for cats.
So, Can Cats Eat Dog Food Safely?
A small amount now and then is unlikely to cause harm in a healthy cat. Still, it may cause mild stomach upset. Over weeks or months, however, a diet of dog food could lead to serious deficiencies. Therefore, it is not a safe long-term substitute, even in an emergency that lasts more than a day or two.
If you run out of cat food, plain cooked chicken or fish can bridge a very short gap. Our list of human foods cats can eat has more ideas. Then, restock a complete cat food as soon as possible.
What About Dogs Eating Cat Food?
This happens often, too. Cat food is richer in protein and fat. As a result, dogs that eat it regularly may gain weight or get an upset stomach. So, it makes sense to keep the bowls separate either way.
How to Keep Pets Out of Each Other’s Food
- Feed cats on a raised surface dogs cannot reach.
- Use a microchip feeder that opens only for your cat.
- Feed pets in separate rooms at set times.
- Pick up leftovers after meals.
The AAFCO sets separate nutrient profiles for cats and dogs, which is a good reminder that their diets differ.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, can cats eat dog food? Only as a rare, accidental nibble. Dog food lacks key nutrients cats need, so it should never be their main diet. Keep bowls separate and feed a complete and balanced cat food every day.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from a licensed veterinarian.
