Can dogs eat macadamia nuts? And cats?
Toxic to dogs; even small amounts can cause weakness and tremors.
Not well documented in cats. Avoid: high fat alone can cause GI upset.
Macadamia nuts cause a distinctive syndrome in dogs: weakness (especially in the back legs), vomiting, tremors and fever, usually within 12 hours. The mechanism is unknown and sensitivity varies. Most dogs recover with supportive care, but any ingestion should be reported to your vet, and cookies or trail mix with macadamias often add chocolate on top.
Signs to watch for
- Hind-leg weakness
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Fever
- Lethargy
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).