How much tomato for your cat?
Most guides say "a few pieces". Enter your cat's weight and get the actual daily ceiling, worked out from tomato's calories and the 10%-of-daily-calories treat rule vets use.
Assumes a healthy, neutered adult at a stable weight, and that this is their only treat that day. Puppies, pregnant, very active or unwell pets need different amounts — ask your vet.
Why this verdict for cats
Ripe tomato in tiny amounts is low-risk, but the green plant parts are toxic to cats.
Ripe red tomato is fine for dogs in small amounts — the caution is about the green parts of the plant, not the ripe fruit.
How much is safe?
A few pieces of washed, ripe red tomato are a low-risk treat. Avoid green (unripe) tomatoes and the stems and leaves, which contain solanine, and skip seasoned tomato products like sauces (often full of garlic, onion and salt).
What happens if a cat eats too much?
Too much can cause mild stomach upset; eating green tomatoes or plant parts can cause solanine effects — drooling, GI upset, weakness — and needs a vet if significant.
How to serve it safely
Offer a little ripe, red, plain tomato with the stem and any green parts removed. Keep dogs away from tomato plants in the garden.
🍽️ Feeding it safely?
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat tomato sauce or ketchup?
Better not — they often contain onion, garlic, salt and sugar, which are more concerning than the tomato itself.
Are cherry tomatoes ok?
Ripe ones in small amounts are fine; just avoid green ones and the plant.
More vegetables for cats
By the CanMyPet Editorial Team · Reviewed against ASPCA Animal Poison Control, the American Kennel Club (AKC) and Pet Poison Helpline · Last updated July 31, 2026.
Sources
- ASPCA — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
- American Kennel Club — Dog Nutrition
- Pet Poison Helpline — Poison List