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Can Cats Drink PediaSure?

Can cats drink Pediasure? Safety, risks, and better alternatives.

Key risk
Pediasure is made for children, not cats, and can upset digestion.
Bottle of Pediasure on a table
Quick Answer

Not recommended. Pediasure is not made for cats.

Safe amount
A few licks at most (if already consumed)
How often
Avoid
Best way
Do not offer as a drink or supplement
Avoid
  • Using Pediasure as nutrition
  • Regular or repeated feeding
  • Large amounts
  • Replacing cat food or formula
Caution: PediaSure is not recommended for cats.

Overview

Some cat owners ask: can cats drink Pediasure? It’s a common question when a cat isn’t eating well.

Pediasure is designed for human children, not pets, and it doesn’t meet a cat’s needs.

Is Pediasure safe for cats?

Pediasure is not toxic in tiny amounts.

That doesn’t mean it’s safe or helpful for cats.

  • Small accidental licks: usually okay
  • Intentional feeding: not recommended
  • Not nutritionally appropriate for cats

Why do people consider Pediasure for cats?

Owners sometimes look for Pediasure when a cat seems weak or won’t eat.

While the intention is good, Pediasure isn’t the right solution.

  • Marketed as a nutrition drink for kids
  • Sweet taste may attract cats
  • Does not solve the real problem

Why Pediasure isn’t a good idea for cats

Cats have very different nutritional needs than humans.

Pediasure contains ingredients that don’t benefit cats.

  • Added sugars
  • Dairy ingredients that may upset digestion
  • Wrong nutrient balance
  • Can reduce appetite for proper food

Possible risks of Pediasure for cats

Problems are more likely with repeated or larger amounts.

  • Diarrhea or vomiting
  • Stomach discomfort
  • Refusing normal cat food
  • Weight gain from sugars

Can Pediasure ever be used in an emergency?

Pediasure should not be used as a nutrition plan for cats.

If a cat is not eating, the focus should be on cat-safe options.

  • Not a substitute for cat food
  • Not a replacement for kitten formula
  • Delays proper care if relied on

Better options than Pediasure for cats

There are safer, cat-appropriate choices.

  • Wet cat food with strong aroma
  • Cat nutritional supplements made for cats
  • Kitten milk replacer (for kittens)
  • Fresh water and gentle encouragement

Can kittens drink Pediasure?

Use kitten milk replacer only.

No. Pediasure is not suitable for kittens.

What if my cat already drank Pediasure?

If your cat had a small amount, it’s usually not an emergency.

  1. Stop access to Pediasure
  2. Offer fresh water
  3. Watch for diarrhea or vomiting
Call a vet if:
  • Ongoing stomach upset
  • Your cat refuses to eat
  • Large amount was consumed

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the most common questions about this topic

1
Can cats drink Pediasure?

No. It’s not recommended and not designed for cats.

2
Is Pediasure toxic to cats?

No, but it can cause digestive upset and offers no benefit.

3
Can Pediasure help a weak cat?

No. Cat-specific food or supplements are a better choice.

4
Can kittens drink Pediasure?

No. Kittens need kitten milk replacer, not Pediasure.

5
What should I give my cat instead of Pediasure?

Wet cat food, cat supplements, or kitten formula if appropriate.

Still have questions? We're here to help!

Sources & References (2)

All information on CatsLib is backed by reputable sources. We regularly review and update our content to ensure accuracy.

1
Last checked: Jan 20, 2026
aspca.org
2
Last checked: Jan 20, 2026
vet.cornell.edu

Our editorial process: Every article is reviewed by veterinarians and feline behavior experts. We cross-reference multiple sources and update content regularly to maintain accuracy.

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CatsLib Team

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CatsLib content is written and reviewed by our editorial team. We focus on clear, practical guidance for cat owners and regularly update articles when recommendations change.

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