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Are cat treats that list 'wine-infused' as a flavoring ingredient safe for a senior cat with kidney issues?

Cats · Food safety

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

Short answer

No, they are not safe and should be avoided. Wine contains alcohol, which is toxic to cats, and sweet wines add sugar which is also unsuitable. For a senior cat with kidney issues, any alcohol exposure is an unnecessary strain on her system. Additionally, raisin-based wines introduce grape toxicity. It's best to choose treats specifically formulated for cats with health conditions, and always check the ingredient list for any alcohol, grape, or raisin derivatives. When in doubt, consult your vet for treat recommendations that support her kidney health.

Wine — Food safety facts

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

Alcohol, and in sweet wines the sugar too. Raisin-based wines add grape toxicity.

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

Wine 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.

Added sugar brings empty calories, and over months that means weight gain and dental disease — both far harder to undo than to avoid.

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

Open the full food page: Wine food facts →