Can my cat eat this?

Can cats eat xylitol / birch sugar?

No — contact a veterinary professional after exposure.

Last reviewed 13 August 2026
AvoidToxic or a serious physical hazard

Why it matters

Veterinarian-authored VCA guidance lists foods containing the sweetener xylitol among foods cats should not receive.

What to do

Check sugar-free sweets, gum, baked goods, toothpaste and nut butter. Keep the packaging and call your vet promptly.

Animal-health sources checked

Related cat guides

This page supports quick decisions for generally healthy cats. It does not diagnose poisoning, account for an individual cat’s medical history or calculate a safe dose.