By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Last updated: 5 November 2026
Cats are drawn to fat, so a tub of margarine left open on the bench or a buttery knife in the sink can be very tempting. Margarine is not poisonous to cats, and a lick is not usually a worry. The problem is that it is almost entirely fat, and a cat that eats a lot of it can end up with a very upset stomach.
Key takeaways
- Margarine is not considered toxic to cats.
- It is mostly vegetable oil and fat, with water, salt and emulsifiers.
- Fatty foods can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.
- Regular extra fat adds calories and can contribute to weight gain.
- A lick is unlikely to cause harm. Call your vet if your cat ate a large amount or seems unwell.
What is in margarine?
Margarine and table spreads are made mainly from vegetable oils blended with water, salt, emulsifiers and flavours. Some contain milk solids or buttermilk, and some are fortified with vitamins. Recipes vary, so check the label on the tub in your fridge.
Why margarine does not suit cats
It is concentrated fat. The ASPCA explains that foods high in oils and fats can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, and potentially pancreatitis in some pets. A cat's stomach is small, and a spoonful of spread is a lot of fat for one sitting.
Pancreatitis in cats is complicated. Cornell's Feline Health Center notes that in over 95 percent of feline pancreatitis cases there is no obvious underlying cause. That means we cannot say a lick of margarine will cause it, but cats with a history of pancreatitis or gut problems are best kept away from rich, fatty foods.
Calories add up. Cornell describes obesity as the most common nutritional disorder in cats, and extra weight can worsen problems such as arthritis and diabetes. Sharing spreads regularly can quietly add to the problem.
Salt and dairy. Most spreads contain added salt. Those with milk solids may also bother cats that do not handle dairy well. The ASPCA notes that pets do not have significant amounts of lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose.
Signs to watch for
- vomiting
- diarrhoea or greasy, soft stools
- reduced appetite
- tiredness or hiding
- a tender or sore-looking belly
What to do if your cat ate margarine
- Put the tub away and clean up any spread your cat can reach.
- Estimate how much was eaten. A lick and half a tub are very different.
- Check the label for any added ingredients such as garlic or herbs in flavoured spreads.
- Offer fresh water and watch your cat over the next day.
- Call your vet if your cat ate a large amount, has a history of pancreatitis, or shows any of the signs above.
Flavoured garlic or herb butters and spreads are a separate concern because garlic is toxic to cats. See our garlic guide and call your vet or the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 if your cat ate one.
When to see a vet urgently
See a vet straight away if your cat:
- vomits repeatedly or cannot keep water down
- has diarrhoea with blood
- stops eating and seems very flat
- seems painful in the belly or hunches up
Cornell notes that the most common signs of pancreatitis in cats are vague, such as lethargy and a reduced appetite. About half of affected cats vomit or lose weight, and belly pain is reported in only a minority, so a cat that is just quiet and off food still deserves a check.
Better treats for cats
If your cat loves rich food, a small piece of plain cooked chicken or fish is a much better choice than a fatty spread. Cornell suggests treats make up no more than 10 to 15 percent of daily calories.
FAQ
Is margarine better than butter for cats?
Neither is a good treat. Both are mostly fat. Butter contains a little lactose, while margarine often has more additives.
Can margarine help a hairball?
Please do not use spreads as a home remedy. Talk with your vet about hairball management that suits your cat.
My cat licked the knife. Should I worry?
A lick of plain margarine is very unlikely to cause harm. Watch for a mild tummy upset.
What about cheese or other dairy?
See our cheese guide.
Talk with a vet
If your cat got into a fatty food and you are not sure whether it needs a check, book a video consult with Dial A Vet's real vets and vet nurses (we help with dogs and cats). Book a Dial A Vet consult.
References
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.
- Cornell Feline Health Center. Feline Pancreatitis.
- Cornell Feline Health Center. Obesity.
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Garlic and Onion (Allium spp) Toxicosis in Animals.
- Cornell Feline Health Center. Feeding Your Cat.
- Animal Poisons Helpline (Australia, 1300 869 738). Emergency Instructions.
Disclaimer: Educational only. This page does not replace an examination or advice from your own veterinarian. If you are worried about your pet right now, contact your local vet or nearest emergency vet clinic.