Why limited
Keep earwigs to small, occasional amounts. Sensitive pets may react to it, and sugar- or fat-heavy foods raise the risk of obesity and pancreatitis.
Earwigs are not known to be toxic to dogs or cats, but their hard exoskeleton can cause choking or intestinal blockage if swallowed whole. Some species release a defensive secretion that may irritate the mouth. Offer only if the insect is small and monitor for coughing, gagging, or reduced appetite.
Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Feed with care), so the notes below hold for either pet.
If it ate some before you noticed, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness or a painful, swollen abdomen over the next 24 hours. A one-off small amount in a healthy adult usually passes with water and rest; repeated exposure, a puppy or kitten, a senior, or a pet with an ongoing illness is a reason to call your vet the same day.
Other foods that need limits
The full A–Z food list groups every food by verdict for each species.
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat earwigs?
CAUTION — limited. Earwigs are not known to be toxic to dogs or cats, but their hard exoskeleton can cause choking or intestinal blockage if swallowed whole. Some species release a defensive secretion that may irritate the mouth. Offer only if the insect is small and monitor for coughing, gagging, or reduced appetite.
How much earwigs can cats have?
Keep earwigs to small, occasional pieces and never part of the main meal. It is classed as with care, so pets with a sensitive gut, pancreatitis or diabetes should skip earwigs entirely.
What reaction should I watch for after cats eats earwigs?
In the 24 hours after cats eats earwigs, look for vomiting, diarrhoea, gas or a drop in appetite. Earwigs are not known to be toxic to dogs or cats, but their hard exoskeleton can cause choking or intestinal blockage if swallowed whole. Some species release a defensive secretion that may irritate the mouth. Offer only if the insect is small and monitor for coughing, gagging, or reduced appetite.
How often can cats have earwigs?
Save earwigs for rare moments rather than building it into a routine; your cat may enjoy it, but that alone does not make it fit to feed often.
What are safer treats than earwigs for cats?
Pick from the safe list instead — grass or honeydew carry none of the risk that earwigs does, and they work better as an everyday treat.