We've all seen videos of dogs loving peanut butter, but what about cats? The answer is more complicated.
Is it Toxic?
Peanut butter itself is generally not toxic to cats. However, it's not exactly healthy either. It provides no nutritional value that a cat can't get from better sources.
The Xylitol Danger
This is critical: Some peanut butters contain Xylitol, a sugar substitute that is highly toxic to dogs and potentially dangerous to cats. Always check the label. If it contains xylitol (or birch sugar), keep it far away from your pets.
Choking Hazard and Fat
The thick, sticky consistency of peanut butter can be a choking hazard for cats. Additionally, it is extremely high in fat. Too much fat can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and even pancreatitis.
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Conclusion
While a tiny lick of standard, xylitol-free peanut butter probably won't hurt, there are much safer and healthier treat options available.