Can dogs eat cashews? And cats?
A few plain unsalted cashews are OK for most dogs; fatty and easy to overdo.
Not toxic, but fatty and a choking risk. Not worth it.
Cashews are one of the few nuts that are not toxic to dogs, and a couple of plain unsalted ones as a rare treat is fine. They are dense with fat and calories, so regular cashew sharing shows up on the scale, and salted or flavored mixes may sit next to raisins and macadamias, which are dangerous. For cats they are simply a fatty choking risk.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting or diarrhea from excess fat
- Weight gain over time
Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control people-foods guidance, Merck Veterinary Manual, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).