Why?
Rabbit is a natural prey for cats: lean, rich in protein, and easy for most cats to digest. It's also used in some cat foods. Its bones are thin and, once cooked, break easily into sharp shards. Raw rabbit, especially wild game, can carry bacteria and parasites.
How much?
A few small pieces now and then, cooked through, boneless and unseasoned. No rabbit stew or rabbit in mustard or wine sauce: the onions, shallots and wine aren't for cats.
The risks
- Small cooked bones that splinter
- Sauces with mustard, wine, onion or shallots
- Raw meat: bacteria and parasites
- Wild game: lead shot and tularemia
Your cat ate some: what now?
A bit of plain cooked rabbit is no problem. If your cat ate rabbit in sauce or swallowed a bone, watch for 24 to 48 hours and call your vet for vomiting, diarrhea, straining, lethargy or belly pain. Don't try to make your cat vomit.
Better options
Plain cooked chicken and turkey are easy to find and just as suitable. For meals, stick with complete cat food.
Common questions
Can cats eat raw rabbit?
It's not recommended. Raw rabbit can carry bacteria and parasites, and wild rabbit may contain lead shot or transmit tularemia. Always cook it through.
My cat hunts rabbits. Is that dangerous?
It's natural, but wild prey can pass on worms and other parasites, and occasionally tularemia. Ask your vet about a deworming schedule for a hunting cat, and see them if your cat seems feverish or lethargic after a hunt.
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.