Can Cats Eat Chicken?
Short answer: Small amounts of plain, cooked, boneless chicken are listed by the ASPCA as safe to share with pets.
Why it’s okay
The ASPCA lists small amounts of lean, cooked chicken among the foods pets can share, served boneless and unseasoned. Raw meat can carry Salmonella and E. coli, and bones can injure or block the digestive tract.
How much and how to serve it
A small piece of plain cooked chicken. Treats of any kind should make up no more than about 5% of a cat’s daily food, according to the ASPCA. Most of the nutrition should come from a complete cat food.
Risks to watch for
- Raw chicken can carry bacteria such as Salmonella.
- Bones can injure or obstruct the digestive tract.
- Seasonings, onion and garlic make it unsafe.
What to do if your cat ate chicken
A little extra usually causes nothing worse than an upset stomach. If your cat ate a large amount, has vomiting or diarrhea, or seems unwell, call your vet.
Related foods
- Can cats eat bananas? 🟡 Yes, in moderation
- Can cats eat blueberries? 🟡 Yes, in moderation
- Can cats eat cucumbers? 🟢 Yes, safe
FAQ
Can cats eat raw chicken?
The ASPCA warns raw meat and eggs can carry Salmonella and E. coli. Cook it plain, and ask your vet if you’re considering a raw diet.
Can cats eat chicken bones?
No. The ASPCA says bones can injure or block the digestive tract, sometimes requiring surgery.
Search our full list of human foods and see whether they’re safe for your cat.
Browse all foods →Sources
By the Petybuzz Editorial Team · Last checked November 10, 2026. This page is general information for pet owners, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different: if yours has a medical condition, is on a special diet, or you’re unsure, ask your veterinarian.