Do Cats Eat Spiders – Toxic Insects Or Healthy Treat?
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Many cats chase, kill and sometimes eat bugs, including spiders. Most spiders are harmless, but a few species are venomous.
Do cats eat spiders? Yes. Cats often catch and eat spiders because the movement triggers their hunting instinct. Most house spiders are harmless to cats, but bites from venomous spiders such as black widows and brown recluses can make a cat seriously ill.
Spiders are not a meaningful source of nutrition. A complete cat food covers everything your cat needs.
Why Do Cats Eat Spiders?
Cats are natural hunters. Small, fast-moving creatures like spiders set off the same stalk-and-pounce behavior cats use on mice and birds.
Many cats bat a spider around as play and then eat it. The spider is a toy and a hunting target more than a snack.
Can Cats Get Sick From Eating Spiders?
Most spiders found in homes are harmless to cats. The bigger risk is a bite from a venomous spider, which can happen while the cat is catching it.
In North America, the spiders of most concern are widow spiders (including the black widow) and the brown recluse. Cats are smaller than people, so a bite can affect them more.
Black widow bites: Widow venom is very potent and causes severe, painful cramping of the large muscle groups, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual. Pet Poison Helpline lists cats among the most sensitive species. Signs can start within minutes and include agitation, drooling, vomiting, muscle tremors and severe pain.
Brown recluse bites: These are often painless, so they go unnoticed. A red spot can turn into a blister and then a slow-healing sore. Some animals later develop fever, vomiting, blood in the urine or kidney problems.
If your cat simply swallows a spider without being bitten, problems are much less likely. Still, watch your cat closely for a day or two.
What Should You Do If Your Cat Eats A Spider?
If the spider was a common house spider, there is usually nothing to do. Keep an eye on your cat for unusual behavior.
If you think the spider was a black widow or brown recluse, or your cat shows pain, tremors, drooling, vomiting, weakness or a new skin sore, call your veterinarian right away. Don't give your cat any human pain relievers or other medicines; many are toxic to cats.
To lower the risk, seal gaps where spiders get in, clear clutter in garages and basements, and keep cats out of areas with known widow spiders.
Final Verdict
The reason why cats eat spiders is that their hunting instincts are kicking in. Most spiders are harmless, but venomous ones like black widows and brown recluses can make a cat very sick. If you suspect a bite, see a vet promptly.
Sources
- Spider Bites, Merck Veterinary Manual
- Spider Envenomation, Pet Poison Helpline
