Can dogs, cats and other pets drink alcohol?

🐶 Dog❌ Not safe
🐱 Cat❌ Not safe
🐦 Birds❌ Not safe
🐹 Rodents and rabbits❌ Not safe
🐠 Fish❌ Not safe

Quick answer: No, dogs should never have alcoholic drinks: even small amounts can cause serious poisoning.

Cats should never have alcohol either; their bodies are very sensitive to it.

What about other pets?

🐦 Birds (Not safe): Birds should never have alcohol: even a little can be fatal.

🐹 Rodents and rabbits (Not safe): Rodents and rabbits should never have alcohol either.

🐠 Fish (Not safe): Aquarium fish should eat only food made for their species; alcohol is not part of their diet and can foul the water.

Why alcohol is bad for dogs and cats

  • Alcohol acts quickly in small animals.
  • Raw yeast dough also produces alcohol in the stomach.
  • Sweet drinks and beer left within reach are common causes of accidents.

My pet drank alcohol. What now?

Stay calm and contact a veterinarian as soon as possible, telling them what your pet swallowed, roughly how much and when. Do not induce vomiting on your own or give milk, oil or home remedies, as this can make things worse.

Warning signs

  • Vomiting
  • Disorientation and loss of balance
  • Deep drowsiness
  • Slow breathing

Frequently asked questions

Can puppies and kittens drink alcohol?

No. Puppies and kittens are even more vulnerable to poisoning, because they are smaller and more curious.

Can dogs and cats drink alcohol every day?

No. Alcohol should be kept completely out of your pets' diet.

See also

← See the full list: can my pet eat this?

This content is for information only and does not replace advice from a veterinarian. Every animal is unique: if your pet has health issues or allergies, or if you have any doubts, consult a professional.