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Raw dough
Raw dough
Raw yeast dough is toxic to cats in two distinct ways. The live yeast ferments sugars in the warm stomach environment, producing carbon dioxide gas and ethanol. The CO2 causes painful abdominal bloating and can distend the stomach to dangerous levels, while the absorbed ethanol causes rapid alcohol poisoning.
Important Notes
Toxic mechanism 1: yeast fermentation produces CO2 — abdominal bloating, distension, and risk of gastric dilation
Toxic mechanism 2: ethanol production from fermentation — rapidly absorbed; cats lack alcohol dehydrogenase, causing CNS and respiratory depression
Symptoms: distended abdomen, vomiting, lethargy, disorientation, weakness; ethanol intoxication causes unsteady gait, low body temperature, slow breathing
Baked bread is safe — the heat kills yeast and evaporates alcohol; only raw dough poses this risk
Contact your vet immediately if your cat ingests raw yeast dough
Potentially Toxic Parts
Seed
Pit
Skin
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Gastric Distension (Bloating) and Abdominal Pain
Gastrointestinal · Early (often within the first few hours).
Respiratory Distress and Depression
Respiratory · Progressive (within 1 hour to a few hours).
Metabolic Acidosis and Hypoglycemia
Hematological · Progressive (usually within an hour and worsening over time).
Severe CNS Depression (Seizures and Coma)
Neurological · Progressive (as fermentation continues and ethanol levels peak).
Neurological Impairment (Ataxia and Disorientation)
Neurological · Within 30 to 60 minutes.
Hypothermia
Neurological · Within 30 to 60 minutes.
Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.