Can Dogs Eat Cashews?

Are you nuts to give your dog cashews? Most dogs can have nuts without much of a reaction, but there are risks.

Symptoms:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Allergic reaction 
  • Diarrhoea
  • Hives/intense itching
  • Lack of appetite
  • Lethargy
  • pancreatitis
  • Upset stomach
  • Vomiting
  • Weight gain

Are cashews good for dogs? Here are some health benefits:

  • Vitamins and minerals - e.g. potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and folate
  • Protein
  • Fibre
  • Low sugar
  • Cholesterol free

What are the risks then? Due to the amount of fat and salt in nuts, there are a few health conditions too many cashews can contribute to:

  • Obesity
  • Pancreatitis
  • Digestive upset
  • Bladder stones
  • Allergic reaction
can dogs eat cashews

Whilst in small amounts, and infrequently, dogs can eat cashews without painful side effects; I don't recommend it. Diseases like pancreatitis require intense treatment if you don't diagnose it early enough. 

Are other nuts safe for dogs to eat then? No. Walnuts are toxic to dogs, and pecans can lead to liver damage. Pistachios are a choking hazard, and most nuts contain mould that could trigger a seizure. Almonds often cause stomach upset.

Nuts can be challenging to digest, so it's often better to avoid all of them.

Don't worry if your pet has eaten some cashews. One or two aren't dangerous for dogs unless they become an intestinal blockage. If this happens, you need to get them checked, as obstructions can often trigger more severe issues. 

Top Tips:

  • The health benefits don't outweigh the risks. Whilst dogs can eat nuts in small amounts; they are high in fat and salt, so shouldn't be included in your dog's diet. 
  • The occasional teaspoon of peanut butter, for example, isn't going to cause problems. Like everything, though, it will depend on how well your dog, as an individual, can handle human food. 

Treatment Plan

Fast - The easiest treatment for mild symptoms is fasting your dog for a few days to give the digestive system time to settle and heal. 

Water - Give your dog access to lots of water and monitor to see if any problems start to develop.

If you're concerned, speak to your vet. They can offer advice about next-steps and potential treatments available.