To those of us with furry friends, they are more than just pets– they’re members of the family. We want to make sure they live their happiest, healthiest lives in our care, so it’s vital to stay up to date on what’s safe for them to eat, what’s not, and how to help keep them feeling their friskiest.
As cat parents, when it comes to ensuring the best nutritional and wellness choices for our felines, it’s always wise to check in on the safety and efficacy of specific ingredients for the kitten-kind before adding them to the menu– mushrooms included.
Whether you’re thinking about giving your whiskered pal a medicinal mushroom supplement, wondering if you can share a bite of your favorite new mushroom-packed recipe, or simply doing your due-diligence on the species of fungi growing in your own backyard, read on for everything you need to know about the safety of mushrooms for your purr-fect sidekick.
Can Cats Eat Mushrooms?
Are mushrooms bad for cats? According to the ASPCA, most mushrooms are safe for pets, but certain species can pose significant health risks for animals.
As a general rule of thumb, mushrooms sold in supermarkets tend to be safe for cats. To name a few, these include:
Safe Mushrooms for Cats
-
Portobello Mushrooms
-
Cremini Mushrooms
-
Champignon or Button Mushrooms
-
Shiitake Mushrooms
-
Oyster Mushrooms
-
Porcini Mushrooms
While these mushrooms are considered safe for felines, it’s best to introduce them into your cat’s diet gradually and see how well they tolerate the new fungal delicacy (keep an eye out for potential allergies or digestive upset), and to give them in moderation as special treats.
Some cats, says NPR, even crave mushrooms, likely for their umami flavor and rich content of amino acids.
Not all mushrooms, however, are safe for your cats to enjoy.
Around 99% of mushrooms are non-toxic and considered safe for pets, says the North American Mycological Association (NAMA), but the remaining 1% can be highly toxic.
Cats may be attracted by the smell of wild mushrooms, which should be avoided. As a general rule of thumb, wild mushrooms are likely to be dangerous or even poisonous for your cat. Poisoning symptoms, says VCA Animal Hospitals, can range from mild to severe.
“To ensure your pet’s safety,” the Pet Poison Helpline advises, “it is best practice to treat all mushrooms not purchased for human consumption as toxic.” Potentially hazardous wild-growing mushrooms include but are not limited to:
Unsafe Mushrooms for Cats:
-
Death Cap Mushrooms
-
Webcap Mushrooms
-
Conocybe Mushrooms
-
Autumn Skullcap Mushrooms
-
Deadly Dapperling Mushrooms
-
Fly Agaric Mushrooms
It is important to note that these mushrooms should not be considered safe for animal or human consumption.
“Magic” mushrooms, species of mushrooms containing psilocybin, are also considered unsafe for pets, according to the ASPCA. If you suspect mushroom poisoning in your pet, call your veterinarian or local poison control center right away.
Your safest bet? Only give your cats mushrooms that are safely grown by reputable sources, which you would eat yourself, and avoid wild mushrooms– in their diet or when roaming the yard– altogether. Plus, keep in mind that cooked mushrooms will likely be easier for your furry friend to digest.
Are Medicinal Mushrooms Good for Cats?
Some swear by the use of medicinal mushrooms for their cats to support various aspects of overall health and well-being. While research is limited, functional mushrooms have been reported to promote everything from immunity to gut health in pets.
According to VCA, “Limited studies in companion animals have been performed, but there is anecdotal evidence that medicinal mushrooms work to treat cancer and other diseases by increasing the effectiveness and activity of immune system cells.”
Reishi for Cats
The Reishi mushroom, rich in antioxidants, triterpenes, and beta glucans, is reported to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and may even help increase life expectancy. It is also said to be beneficial in slowing cancer growth.*
Lion’s Mane for Cats
Lion’s mane mushroom may help to support your cat’s brain health, including symptoms of cognitive decline like confusion, sundowning, and anxiety.*
Cordyceps for Cats
For cats, the benefits of using medicinal Cordyceps may include supporting lung health, kidney health, and diabetes.*
Chaga for Cats
In addition to promoting immunity, the Chaga mushroom may help to improve your pet’s strength, energy, endurance, and overall quality of life.*
Turkey Tail for Cats
The benefits of Turkey Tail mushroom for cats may include promoting digestive health and stress management. This mushroom has also shown potential as a support supplement in animals with cancer.*
The Bottom Line on Cats and Mushrooms
Can cats have mushrooms?
In moderation, most mushrooms that are safe for you to consume should also be safe, tasty treats for your pet, and medicinal mushrooms for cats may offer your feline friend a variety of health and wellness benefits.
To err on the side of caution, avoid letting your pet get into wild mushrooms of any kind, and steer clear of giving mushrooms to cats or any animals who may be allergic to mushrooms.
If you’re thinking about trying medicinal mushrooms to boost your feline companion’s health, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before adding a new supplement to your pet’s wellness regimen.