Why?
Blueberries aren't toxic, they're low in calories and rich in antioxidants, and some cat food recipes even include them. They're still fruit: your cat doesn't need them and can't even taste their sweetness. Small and round, a whole berry can also go down the wrong way in a cat that gulps without chewing.
How much?
Two to four blueberries now and then is fine. Wash them, serve them plain, fresh or thawed, and cut them in half if your cat tends to swallow things whole.
The risks
- Diarrhea from too many berries
- Choking if swallowed whole
- Muffins and desserts: sugar, butter, lactose
- Extra sugar for diabetic cats
Your cat ate some: what now?
A few blueberries are no problem at all. If your cat ate a big handful, watch for loose stools or vomiting over the next 24 to 48 hours. Call your vet if those signs last, and right away if your cat seems to struggle to swallow or breathe.
Better options
Blueberries are already one of the better fruit options. For a true carnivore treat, nothing beats a small piece of plain cooked chicken or fish.
Common questions
How many blueberries can a cat eat?
Two to four berries now and then is enough. Treats, fruit included, should stay under 10% of what your cat eats in a day.
Can cats eat dried blueberries?
Better not: drying concentrates the sugar, and many are sweetened. Stick to a few fresh or thawed berries.
This information is general and does not replace advice from a veterinarian. If your cat has swallowed something toxic, call your vet or an animal poison control center right away, without waiting for symptoms.