Warning:
Wine is toxic to cats and should never be given.
Overview
Some cat owners ask: can a cat drink wine? The answer is a clear no.
Wine contains alcohol, which cats cannot process safely—even in very small amounts.
Is wine safe for cats?
Wine is not safe for cats at any dose.
Cats are much smaller than humans, so alcohol affects them faster and more strongly.
- No safe amount
- Risk even from a few licks
- All types of wine are unsafe
Why wine is dangerous for cats
Alcohol affects a cat’s body very quickly.
What seems like a tiny sip to us can be too much for a cat.
- Cats cannot handle alcohol
- Rapid effects due to small body size
- Higher risk compared to dogs or humans
Does the type of wine matter?
No. All wine is unsafe for cats.
- Red wine: unsafe
- White wine: unsafe
- Rosé: unsafe
- Sparkling wine: unsafe
- Cooking wine: unsafe
What if my cat drank wine?
If your cat licked or drank wine, take it seriously.
Even small amounts can cause problems.
- Remove access to alcohol immediately
- Offer fresh water
- Watch closely for unusual behavior
Call a vet if:
- Any amount more than a quick lick
- Lethargy, unsteady walking, vomiting
- You’re unsure how much was consumed
Safe drink options for cats
Cats don’t need anything fancy to drink.
- Fresh water
- Cat-safe broths made for pets
- Moisture from wet cat food