Nuts
Macadamia Nuts: Safe for Dogs and Cats?
If your pet ate this, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
Macadamia nuts cause a well-documented toxic reaction in dogs even though the exact toxin responsible has never been identified.
Toxic principle: unidentified (macadamia nut toxin, mechanism unknown)
Watch for
- weakness, especially in the hind legs
- vomiting
- muscle tremors
- elevated body temperature
- joint stiffness
- difficulty walking
Sources
- ASPCA: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants, Macadamia Nut
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Macadamia Nut Toxicosis in Dogs
Reviewed 2026-07-12
Macadamia toxicity has not been clearly documented in cats, but because the mechanism in dogs is still unknown, vets recommend keeping macadamia nuts away from cats too.
Toxic principle: unidentified; toxicity in cats unconfirmed
Watch for
- possible vomiting or stomach upset from the high fat content
- choking or obstruction risk from the hard nut
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-12
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.