Cats can have tomatoes, but only in very small amounts and only when the tomatoes are ripe and red. Ripe tomatoes are generally safe for cats in small quantities as an occasional treat, but they offer little nutritional benefit because cats are obligate carnivores, relying mainly on animal-based proteins. However, green (unripe) tomatoes, as well as the leaves and stems of tomato plants, contain solanine and other toxic chemicals that are harmful to cats and can cause serious health issues. Commercial tomato products like sauces, ketchup, and canned tomatoes are also not safe for cats because they often contain harmful additives such as salt, garlic, and onions. To summarize:
- Ripe red tomatoes: Safe in tiny amounts occasionally.
- Green/unripe tomatoes, leaves, stems: Toxic to cats.
- Tomato sauces, ketchup, canned tomatoes: Not safe due to added ingredients.
- Cats don't need tomatoes in their diet as they provide little nutritional value.
If a cat eats any part of the tomato plant or unripe tomatoes, or shows symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or tremors, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately.
