Can dogs or cats eat hummus?

9 October 2023
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s care, treatment, or medical conditions.

Can dogs eat hummus?

Is it safe for your dog to nibble on hummus? Hummm, nope, probably not.

Hummus is typically made from chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. While some of these ingredients are harmless to dogs in small amounts, such as chickpeas or olive oil, others prove toxic, notably garlic. Garlic consumption in dogs can lead to conditions like red blood cell damage and anaemia, which could be fatal if left untreated.

In addition, while hummus itself isn’t high in fat content when compared with other foods humans eat daily, its caloric density might not complement the dietary needs of our four-legged friends. Steer clear.

If your dog eats hummus and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, dog insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.

Can cats eat hummus?

Is your cat hoping for some hummus? Avoid sharing. Hummus is primarily made from chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and other seasonings, many of which are not suitable for feline consumption.

Garlic is one ingredient in hummus that can pose severe risks to your cat's wellbeing. Garlic contains substances like thiosulfate, which are toxic to cats.

Additionally, the base ingredient of hummus, chickpeas, may also cause stomach upset in some cats when consumed in large quantities. Although they aren't necessarily harmful on their own, chickpeas are high in fibre, which domesticated cats' digestive systems aren't equipped to handle efficiently, potentially leading to bloating and flatulence.

If your cat eats hummus and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, cat insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.

Food safety statuses

Safe

Could be given almost daily without harm

Safe in moderation

Not toxic, but should not be given regularly

Unsafe

Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet