Why?
Candy is sugar, flavorings and dyes, nothing useful for a carnivore that can't even taste sweetness. Hard candy and lollipops can cause choking, and a swallowed wrapper can block the intestines. Sugar-free candy often contains xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs; data in cats is more limited, but it's not worth the risk. Chocolate candy adds theobromine on top.
How much?
No amount is recommended. Keep candy and wrappers out of reach, especially around Halloween and the holidays, when bowls are everywhere.
The risks
- Choking on hard candy or a lollipop
- Intestinal blockage if a wrapper is swallowed
- Xylitol in sugar-free candy
- Poisoning with chocolate candy
- Vomiting and diarrhea from the sugar
Your cat ate some: what now?
If the candy was sugar-free or chocolate, or if your cat swallowed the wrapper or stick, call your vet right away, without waiting for symptoms. Keep the package for the ingredient list and don't try to make your cat vomit. For one small regular candy, watch your cat for 24 to 48 hours.
Better options
Cat treats are made to spoil your cat. A thin strip of plain cooked chicken or a catnip toy will also go down well.
Common questions
Can cats eat marshmallows?
They're not toxic in themselves, but they're pure sugar, sticky and a choking risk, and sugar-free ones may contain xylitol. Best kept away.
My cat swallowed a candy wrapper, what should I do?
Watch its appetite, stools and any vomiting closely. A wrapper can block the gut: if your cat vomits, stops eating or seems to have belly pain, call your vet promptly.
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.