Suspect poisoning? US: ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 · UK: 01202 509 000 · Severe symptoms → nearest emergency vet now.

My 4kg cat licked a plate with a sweet chicken and grape sauce about 30 minutes ago. What should I do?

Cats · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, you should be concerned. Grapes are toxic to cats and can cause sudden kidney failure, and even a small amount in a sauce is a risk. Watch for early signs like vomiting, lethargy, or a lack of appetite over the next 12-24 hours. Because the toxic dose is unknown and kidney damage can be silent, it's best to call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 for guidance right away.

Grapes — Food safety facts

Do not feed · Cats · full breakdown on the linked food page

Toxic. Can cause sudden acute kidney failure in dogs — no safe amount is known. Raisins are equally dangerous.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Do not feed), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Grapes should not be given to cats at all. Even a small amount can do harm, so there is no portion small enough to be safe.

Do not induce vomiting and do not give milk or oil to “dilute” it. Note the food and roughly how much was eaten, then call your vet or a pet poison hotline and follow their advice on whether to bring the pet in straight away.

Why these cautions matter

Grapes and raisins are linked to kidney failure in dogs, and no safe amount is reliable — some pets react after only a few.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Grapes food facts page.

Open the full food page: Grapes food facts →