Cats can have mashed potatoes, but only in very small, occasional amounts and only if the potatoes are cooked plain without any harmful ingredients. Mashed potatoes for cats should be unseasoned, without butter, salt, garlic, onions, or any spices, as these can be toxic or unhealthy for them. Raw potatoes and potato skins must be avoided because they contain solanine, a toxin harmful to cats. While plain cooked potatoes are generally safe, they are not nutritionally necessary for cats, who are obligate carnivores and thrive on meat-based diets. Too much potato can cause digestive upset or contribute to unhealthy weight gain in cats, so mashed potatoes should only be an occasional treat if given at all.
