By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Last updated: 10 November 2026
A cat lapping at a spilled glass of cola is a common household moment, and usually a harmless one. The reason cola is on the "do not offer" list is caffeine. It does not take a lot of caffeine to affect a small animal, and a can left open on a bedside table can hold more than a lick.
Key takeaways
- Pepsi contains caffeine, and the Woolworths product listing carries a "contains caffeine" warning.
- Caffeine is a methylxanthine, related to the compound that makes chocolate toxic. Lort Smith Melbourne Animal Hospital rates its toxicity in cats as severe, depending on the amount and form.
- A lick is unlikely to cause problems. A whole can, or cola mixed with coffee or energy drink, is a reason to call.
- Sugar adds empty calories and diet versions add sweeteners.
- Related: candy, xylitol, chocolate.
What is in a bottle of cola
The Woolworths listing for Pepsi Cola Soft Drink lists carbonated water, sugar, colour (150d), food acid (338), caffeine and flavour, and carries the line "contains caffeine". Nothing in that list is food for a cat.
What caffeine does
The ASPCA's people foods list groups chocolate, coffee and caffeine together because they share methylxanthines. In pets these can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death. Lort Smith's cat page lists restlessness, panting, drooling, vomiting, a fast heart rate, wobbliness, dilated pupils, twitching and seizures, and says sudden death from caffeine toxicity has been reported. Treatment is supportive and may include fluids, anti-nausea medicine, sedation, seizure control and heart monitoring.
How much counts depends on the cat's size and on the form of caffeine, so we do not give a safe amount. If you are worried, the answer is to call.
Other parts of the drink
- Sugar. Cats do not need it. VCA says that in North America obesity is the most common preventable disease in cats, and sugary drinks are an easy way to add calories.
- Diet and zero-sugar versions. Sweeteners vary by product and brand, so read the label. Lort Smith says the effect of xylitol in cats is unknown, but call your vet if it is on the list.
- Fizz. Carbonation can make a cat burp or feel unsettled, though it is not a poison.
If your cat drank Pepsi
- Take the drink away and note roughly how much was missing.
- Check the label for caffeine and sweeteners.
- Offer fresh water.
- Do not make your cat vomit. Lort Smith says vomiting should not be induced in hyperactive or overexcited animals.
- For a lick or two, watch your cat for the day.
- If a good amount was drunk, or if your cat is restless, panting or shaky, call your vet or the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738.
Signs to watch for
- Restlessness or pacing
- Rapid breathing or panting
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- A racing heart
- Tremors, twitching or unsteady walking
- Drinking and urinating more than usual
When to see a vet urgently
Go to a clinic for tremors, collapse, seizures, a pounding heart or breathing trouble. Take the label or bottle with you. Lort Smith notes that packaging or the recipe helps your vet work out the amount.
Keeping drinks safe
Cats are surprisingly good at finding drinks. Use glasses with lids or put cups away from the edge of tables and benches. Rinse empties and put cans in a recycling bin with a lid. Open cans left on a bedside table are a common source of trouble.
If you see your cat drinking, rinse it away or offer water straight after. Note the drink, roughly how much was taken and what time, because your vet will ask. Remember that coffee, tea, energy drinks and chocolate are also caffeine sources.
FAQ
Is caffeine-free cola safer?
It removes the main concern, but sugar and other additives remain. It is still not a drink for cats.
Can cats drink flat soda?
Flat does not remove caffeine. Offer water.
Why is my cat attracted to soft drink?
Cats are often drawn to anything dripping, sweet-smelling or on a bench. A bowl of fresh water placed away from food often helps.
Is a lick at a glass really a risk?
Usually not. The concern is a good amount, and caffeine also appears in coffee, tea and energy drinks.
Talk with a vet
If your cat has taken in cola or any caffeinated drink and you are unsure what to do, book a video consult with Dial A Vet's real vets and vet nurses. We help with dogs and cats, with same-day and extended hours. Book a Dial A Vet consult.
References
- Woolworths. Pepsi Cola Soft Drink Bottle 1.25L.
- Lort Smith Melbourne Animal Hospital. Caffeine Coffee - cats.
- ASPCA. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Obesity in Cats.
- Lort Smith Melbourne Animal Hospital. Xylitol Sweetener - cats.
- RSPCA Australia Knowledgebase. Do cats have special nutritional requirements?.
- VCA Animal Hospitals. Vomiting in Cats.
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.