Can Cats Eat Mushrooms? Risks, Benefits, and Safe Practices

Discover how to introduce fungi treats responsibly and safeguard your feline’s health.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 29, 2025

Discover how to introduce fungi treats responsibly and safeguard your feline’s health.

Mushrooms are a curious addition to the dinner plates of many humans, but cat owners often wonder if these fungi are safe—or even beneficial—for their feline friends. This comprehensive guide explores the science, health benefits, risks, and best practices for feeding mushrooms to cats.

Are Mushrooms Safe for Cats?

The answer is nuanced: some mushrooms are safe for cats in very small amounts, while others can be extremely toxic—even deadly. Store-bought varieties like white button, cremini, and portobello mushrooms are generally safe when fed plain and in moderation. However, wild mushrooms pose a serious risk and should be strictly avoided.

Safe: Store-bought mushrooms (plain, cooked, no seasoning).
Dangerous: All wild mushrooms and any mushrooms containing toxic compounds or additives.
Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods like mushrooms to your cat’s diet.

The Nutritional Value of Safe Mushrooms

Safe, store-bought mushrooms offer some nutritional benefits for cats, though it is important to emphasize that cats are obligate carnivores and do not require fungi in their diet. However, if your feline enjoys plain mushrooms, you may see:

Dietary fiber for digestive health
Vitamins such as D, B-vitamins, and potassium
Antioxidants to support immune function
Prebiotics that foster healthy gut bacteria

These nutrients can contribute to gut health, immune defense, and even joint comfort, although they are not essential to a cat’s primary nutritional requirements, which are based on animal protein.

Why Do Some Cats Like Mushrooms?

It might seem odd, but some cats are drawn to mushrooms. This may be due to:

The umami flavor present in many mushrooms, similar to savory amino acids found in meat
The meat-like texture, which can appeal to cats’ predatory instincts

However, interest varies widely; while some cats beg for bites, many will ignore mushrooms entirely.

The Dangers of Wild Mushrooms

Wild mushrooms are categorically unsafe for cats. Many wild varieties—including but not limited to Amanita, galerina, and others—contain potent toxins that can cause severe illness and death in even minuscule amounts.

Amanita mushrooms: Among the most toxic; can cause irreversible liver damage, acute vomiting, jaundice, seizures, and death
Magic mushrooms: Contain psilocybin and psilocin, which are highly toxic, causing hallucinations, tremors, disorientation, and potentially fatal symptoms in cats

Always assume that unidentified or outdoor mushrooms are dangerous and keep cats away from areas where they might grow.

Common Wild Mushroom Toxins for Cats

Mushroom Type	Toxic Compound	Typical Symptoms
Amanita (e.g., death cap)	Amanitin toxins	Vomiting, severe diarrhea, jaundice, seizures, liver failure
Magic mushrooms (Psilocybe)	Psilocybin, psilocin	Disorientation, hallucinations, ataxia, tremors, seizures
False morel	Gyromitrin	Vomiting, lethargy, jaundice, seizures

Symptoms of Mushroom Poisoning in Cats

If your cat eats a wild or unknown mushroom, watch for signs of poisoning, which may begin within 6–12 hours:

Vomiting and diarrhea
Lethargy or weakness
Loss of appetite
Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
Staggering, seizures, tremors
Excess salivation
Disorientation or unsteady gait

If you notice any of these symptoms and suspect mushroom ingestion, seek immediate veterinary attention. Delaying care can lead to irreversible organ failure or death.

Can Cats Eat Raw Mushrooms?

Raw mushrooms—even store-bought—are not recommended for cats. Raw mushrooms may contain small amounts of bacteria or naturally occurring compounds that are deactivated by cooking. Feeding only cooked, plain mushrooms further reduces the risk of upsetting your cat’s digestive system.

Can Cats Eat Cooked Mushrooms?

Plain, cooked mushrooms (store-bought varieties only) may be given in moderation. However:

Never add seasoning, butter, oils, garlic, or onions, as these ingredients are toxic or irritating to cats
Portion control: Only offer a tiny amount as an occasional treat; mushrooms should never be a staple food for cats

Potential Health Benefits of Safe Mushrooms for Cats

The following benefits may be observed in small amounts when using select, safe mushrooms as a supplement (with veterinary guidance):

Supports gut health: Dietary fiber and prebiotics aid digestion and stool regularity
Boosts immunity: Antioxidants and vitamins support the immune system
Anti-inflammatory effects: Mushrooms like reishi and turkey tail have compounds shown to counteract inflammation, possibly benefiting cats with joint pain or arthritis

Nevertheless, cats get all essential nutrients from a balanced, meat-based diet. Mushrooms should not be considered as a dietary requirement for felines.

How to Safely Offer Mushrooms to Your Cat

Start with a tiny, plain, thoroughly cooked piece of a store-bought mushroom.
Monitor closely for any gastrointestinal upset, allergy, or unusual behavior.
Never offer wild or foraged mushrooms, and never feed mushrooms cooked with any seasonings, dairy, or oils.
Consult your veterinarian before introducing mushrooms to your cat’s diet.

What if My Cat Eats a Wild Mushroom?

If your cat eats any part of a wild mushroom—even in very small quantities—contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately. Take a sample of the mushroom (if possible), as identification can help guide emergency treatment. Rapid intervention is critical, as some toxic mushrooms act quickly to damage a cat’s system.

Myths and Facts About Cats and Mushrooms

Myth	Fact
Cats instinctively avoid poisonous foods	Not true. Many cats are curious eaters and may nibble wild fungi
All mushrooms are safe in small amounts	False. Some contain toxins deadly even in tiny doses
Mushrooms are a protein source for cats	Not adequate; cats need animal protein to thrive

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are all store-bought mushrooms safe for cats?

Most plain, store-bought mushrooms (such as white button and cremini) are generally safe in tiny quantities if cooked and served with no additives. Gourmet or exotic mushrooms may be riskier—consult your veterinarian before trying anything new.

Can cats taste mushrooms?

Cats are attracted to the umami flavor of mushrooms due to their amino acid content, similar to that of meat, but reactions vary.

How much mushroom is too much?

Any mushroom offering should be strictly limited to an occasional, tiny treat. Larger quantities can disrupt digestion and offer no nutritional advantage for obligate carnivores.

What about mushroom-based supplements marketed for pets?

Some supplements use medicinal mushrooms like reishi or turkey tail for their purported anti-inflammatory effects. Always seek veterinary guidance before using any supplement—not all are proven safe or beneficial for cats.

What should I do if I’m not sure what my cat ate?

If you have any doubt about mushroom identity or possible toxicity, treat it as a veterinary emergency. Bring a sample for examination and provide as much detail as possible about your cat’s symptoms and the mushroom’s origin.

Conclusion: Mushrooms in the Feline Diet

Some mushrooms are safe for cats in strict moderation, others are highly dangerous. While cats may enjoy an occasional bite of plain, cooked store mushroom, wild mushrooms and all raw or seasoned preparations can be deadly. Cats have no dietary need for mushrooms, but if you choose to offer one for enrichment, always use extreme caution and consult your veterinarian first.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete