Can dogs or cats eat pancakes?

10 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 pancakes?

Here's the scoop: pancakes can indeed be on the menu for dogs, but let's talk moderation.

Typically crafted from ingredients like flour, eggs, milk, and a touch of sugar, pancakes seem innocent enough. And for dogs, a small nibble now and then is usually okay. But they should remain an occasional indulgence. An overdose of sugar or fat might prompt some tummy turbulence, with symptoms like diarrhoea or vomiting in tow. Plus, it's a fast track to packing on those extra pounds if served too frequently.

Now, let's chat toppings. Chocolate chips and syrup? A strict no-no for dogs. Chocolate is a well-known canine foe, and the syrup's sugar levels aren't their best friend either. To play it safe, stick to plain pancakes, sans sweeteners or butter.

And remember, not all dogs are pancake pals. Some might have allergies or sensitivities to particular pancake ingredients, like wheat flour or dairy. To keep their tails wagging, introduce new foods gradually, and be on the lookout for any telltale signs of discomfort, like itching or tummy rumbles.

If your dog eats pancakes 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 pancakes?

Pancakes can be safe for cats in moderation, but let's dive into the details.

Pancakes typically include ingredients like flour, eggs, milk, and a pinch of sugar. While these components are generally harmless to cats in small quantities, they should only be offered as an occasional treat. Too much sugar or fat can lead to digestive disturbances like diarrhoea or vomiting and potential weight gain if frequently consumed.

Now, let's talk toppings. Chocolate chips or syrup? Definitely not on the kitty menu. Chocolate is a well-known feline foe, and the syrup's sugar content isn't a feline's best friend either. To play it safe, opt for plain pancakes without any added sweeteners or butter.

It's essential to remember that not all cats are pancake enthusiasts. Some may have allergies or sensitivities to specific pancake ingredients, such as wheat flour or dairy. To keep your cat's curiosity satisfied and their well-being intact, introduce new foods slowly and stay vigilant for any signs of discomfort, like itching or gastrointestinal issues.

If your cat eats pancakes and exhibits 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.

Information purposes only

The suggestions offered here are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for pet-specific advice from your veterinarian. Never disregard your vet’s recommendations, or delay in acting on them, based on something you have read on this site. Regardless of how a food is rated here, any food that you give your pet can pose potential health risks, including allergic reactions, choking, or other health conditions such as bloat. Always monitor your pet while they’re eating, and never introduce a new food into your pet’s diet without first consulting your veterinarian. 

Pet poison emergency protocol

If your pet is acting sick, call your regular veterinarian immediately. If your regular veterinarian is closed, call a nearby on-call veterinarian, animal urgent care, or veterinary emergency hospital. If your pet is not acting sick but you think they may have been exposed to a poison, call the Animal Poison Line (01202 50 9000).

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