Get

In Your Inbox

Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Can Cats Eat Baked Beans? Vet-Reviewed Risks & Alternatives

Can Cats Eat Baked Beans

Some kitties are notoriously fussy eaters and others will eat anything in sight. For the latter, almost any food can be tempting, including a warm, delicious bowl of freshly baked beans.

But while some human foods are safe for our feline companions (in moderation), others can be potentially harmful, including baked beans.

Let’s take a closer look at why you shouldn’t share this traditional dish with your lovable fur baby.

divider 1 paws

The Nutritional Needs of Cats

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are designed to thrive on a diet consisting primarily of animal-based proteins, such as fish and chicken. These are generally easier for cats to digest than plant-based proteins and contain the essential amino acids that they need.

That said, cats also need other types of nutrients to survive including fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and of course water.

Cat-Eating-Tuna_Veera_Shutterstock-1
Image Credit: Veera, Shutterstock

Cats and Carbs

Like all animals, cats need energy to support their normal life activities, and they need even more during certain phases of their life, such as growth, pregnancy, and lactation. Energy can come from carbohydrates, protein and fats. As well as being a source of plant based protein, legumes such as beans are also high in carbohydrates and can provide a source of energy. However, certain peculiarities of cats’ digestive systems limit their ability to ferment the fibers found in these plant-based carbohydrates.

Cats and Fibers

Cats do need a small amount of fiber in their diet, and legumes—such as beans—are a good source of fiber.

Fiber in the diet is good for overall gastrointestinal health and can even help obese cats lose weight. According to the National Academy of Sciences, dietary fiber can help manage high blood sugar in older cats. However, too much fiber in the diet can decrease the digestibility of other essential nutrients. Indeed, specific characteristics of cats’ digestive systems (such as a relatively small colon) suggest that they are not well adapted to breaking down and utilizing dietary fiber. Always speak to a vet to make sure you are offering your cat a healthy and appropriate diet.

Need veterinary advice but can't get to the clinic? Catster recommends PangoVet, our online veterinary service. Talk to a vet online and get the answers and advice you need for your cat without having to leave your living room — all at an affordable price!

PangoVet_Mention-in-Content for PangoVet2 save money

divider 1 paws

What Are Baked Beans Made Of?

Canned baked beans consist of beans, water, brown sugar, bacon, salt, cornstarch, onion and garlic powder, and other seasonings, spices, and preservatives. Homemade baked beans are usually prepared with white beans and served in tomato or barbecue sauce with spices and seasonings like paprika, onion powder, salt, and brown sugar. Some people add mustard, garlic, onions, bacon, etc.

Both dishes are high in protein but also in carbs, added sugars, and salt.

a bowl of baked beans
Image Credit: Spalnic, Shutterstock

So, Are Baked Beans Safe for Cats?

While not usually inherently toxic, baked beans are not an ideal food choice for cats due to several reasons and should be avoided.

1. High Sodium Content

Canned baked beans are often loaded with salt as a preservative and for flavor. Cats are not well-equipped to handle excessive amounts of sodium in their diet, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.


2. Harmful Ingredients

Baked beans typically contain other ingredients that may not be suitable for feline consumption. For example, many recipes include onion and garlic, which are highly toxic to cats because they can cause red blood cell damage and anemia.

vet holding sick cat
Image Credit: megaflopp, Shutterstock

3. Potential Gastrointestinal Issues

Some cats have sensitive stomachs, and abrupt changes in their diet can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or gastrointestinal discomfort.

divider 1 paws

What About Homemade Baked Beans?

If you make baked beans and don’t include any seasonings, garlic, onions, or other cat-harmful ingredients, you could give your kitty a tiny bite as an exceptional treat. But know that there are safer options for your cat!

Better Alternatives for Cat Treats Than Baked Beans

Commercial cat treats that are made with high-quality ingredients and formulated to meet feline nutritional requirements are readily available in pet stores. These treats are not only safe but also designed to appeal to a cat’s taste preferences.

divider 1 paws

Final Thoughts

While most kitties are curious about human food, it is essential to be cautious before sharing your favorite snack or meal with them. Baked beans—especially canned ones—are not safe options for our feline companions due to their high salt and carbohydrate content, potentially harmful ingredients, and risk of digestive upset. To ensure your feline companion’s well-being, focus on providing them with a diet that aligns with their natural carnivorous needs.

When in doubt, always consult with your vet before introducing any new foods to your beloved cat’s diet.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Catster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

How to Clean a Cat Water Fountain in 7 Simple Steps

If you have the convenience of a cat water fountain, you know that it’s changed the ballgame for how your cat gets their...

Addison’s Disease in Cats: Our Vet Explains Causes, Signs & Treatments

Addison’s Disease, also known as hypoadrenocorticism, occurs due to a deficiency in adrenal gland hormones. It is a rare condition in cats. The...

Wet Whiskers Fountains Review (2025 Update)

Some domesticated cats will drink from standing water without an issue, but it’s common for cats to be selective about what they drink....

Cat Diarrhea: Causes & Care Guide (Vet Answer)

If your cat has diarrhea, should you always see a vet? What if your cat has diarrhea but seems fine? Let's look at...

More related

100+ Italian Cat Names: Ideas for Exciting & Gorgeous Cats

Cats are the purrrfect companions, and when it comes to naming our furry friends, why not consider referencing Italian culture? With references to...

Is Incense Safe for Cats? What You Should Know!

Incense can improve focus and relaxation while reducing tension, anxiety, and insomnia. It is often used in meditation and yoga, but what effect...

Can Cats Eat Mashed Potatoes? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Safety Guide

Anyone who has owned a cat knows what it’s like to have a curious nose lingering near their dinner plate. After all, how...

Benadryl For Cats: Our Vet Explains Safety, Dosage & Side Effects

“Benadryl” is the brand name of an over-the-counter, human-use antihistamine drug. The active ingredient in Benadryl is diphenhydramine hydrochloride. Benadryl is used to...

Keep reading

10 Ways to Train Your Kitten: Vet-Approved Tips

Cats might like us to think that they’re untrainable, but the truth is that most cats enjoy short training sessions! The best time for them to learn is when they are still young, so beginning when your pet is a...

Tabby cat on white background

My Cat Isn’t Affectionate Anymore: 7 Vet-Reviewed Possible Reasons

If your cat has suddenly stopped being affectionate, it can be unsettling. However, it likely isn’t because of anything you did. Cats can be sensitive creatures and may react negatively to things that we don’t even realize happened, changing their...

hand touching cat's paw

Why Do Cats Howl? Vet-Approved Reasons & What to Do

Cats can surprise us with their unexpected and unusual sounds during the day, but how often do you take the time to hear what they have to say? Even though they don’t speak our language, cats use various vocalizations to...

angry cat meowing outdoor

Why Do Cats Sleep So Much? 6 Vet-Approved Reasons

Chances are that while you’re reading this article, it’s probably quite likely that your cat(s) are sleeping: on your lap, in the sink, next to the cozy cat bed that you purchased specifically for your kitty. Cats spend an excessive...

cat sleeping on the patio

Can Cats Die of Old Age? Vet-Approved Facts & Care Tips

Our beloved cats give us a lifetime of love, laughter, and joy, but aging will ultimately take its toll on all of us. It’s fairly common to hear that a pet died of old age, but this is a common...

senior calico cat on kitchen towels

Why Do Cats Blink Slowly? Vet-Verified Behavioral Cues

One of the best things that you can do for your cat, other than feeding, brushing, and petting them, is to understand them. That is what will set you apart from other cat owners. If you can learn to understand...

chimera cat with green eyes

How to Keep a Collar on a Cat: 5 Vet-Verified Easy Tips & Tricks

Whether a breakaway or traditional product, keeping a collar on a cat can be quite a task for every pet owner. While most people associate collars with dogs, it’s also a good idea for your cat to wear one if...

cat with red calming collar

Can Cats Eat Passion Fruit? Vet Approved Feline Nutrition Advice

Our feline friends love treats, and we love giving treats to them! Most of the time, we stick with cat-specific treats, but sometimes, it’s tempting to let our kitties have a bite of whatever we’re eating (especially when they have...

Can Cats Eat Passion Fruit