Is Avocado toxic to dogs or cats?
Category: Food | Last reviewed: April 2026
Quick verdict
Dogs
CAUTIONCats
CAUTIONAvocado and dogs
Avocado contains persin, which is toxic to birds and some mammals, but dogs appear relatively resistant. The main risk for dogs is the large pit, which can cause intestinal obstruction. The flesh in small amounts is unlikely to cause serious poisoning, but large quantities of flesh or skin may cause GI upset. Guacamole also contains onion and garlic, which are separately toxic.
Onset
12-24 hours
Symptoms
- - vomiting
- - diarrhoea
- - inability to defecate
- - GI upset
What to do now
Contact your vet if your dog ate a large amount of avocado or swallowed the pit. Monitor for signs of GI distress.
Toxicity is dose-dependent. Your dog's weight and the quantity consumed are both important - include these when you call poison control.
Avocado and cats
Similar to dogs, cats appear more resistant to persin than birds. The greater risks are GI upset from fat content and obstruction from the pit. Keep avocados out of reach regardless.
Onset
12-24 hours
Symptoms
- - vomiting
- - diarrhoea
- - GI upset
What to do now
Contact your vet if your cat ate a significant amount or swallowed part of the pit.
Data sources
- - ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- - Pet Poison Helpline
- - VCA Animal Hospital
Last reviewed: April 2026
Data error? Email data@treatortoxic.com with a source reference.