Can Cats Drink Chicken Broth?
Yes — cats can safely drink chicken broth, but only if it is plain, homemade, and free from salt, onion, garlic, and spices.
Commercial broths, soups, and seasoning mixes are usually unsafe because they contain ingredients toxic to cats. So if you are wondering whether your cats can drink chicken broth and is it beneficial for your cat? Check out this complete post
Chicken broth can actually be one of the healthiest liquids you can give your cat in moderation, especially for hydration, picky eaters, sick cats, or cats recovering from illness.
In this detailed article, you’ll learn the exact benefits, risks, safe recipe, how much to give, and when chicken broth can be dangerous.
Also Read: Can Cats Drink Sparkling Water? A Complete Vet-Informed Guide for Cat Owners 2026
Why Chicken Broth Is Good for Cats (When Made Properly)
Chicken broth is not just safe — it can be genuinely beneficial when served correctly.
1. Helps With Hydration
Many cats don’t drink enough water. Chicken broth encourages drinking because it smells like food and tastes savory.
Extra hydration can help with:
- Mild constipation
- Urinary health
- Kidney support (not for severe disease unless vet approves)
2. Encourages Appetite
If your cat is sick, recovering from surgery, or being picky, pouring a tablespoon of warm broth over their food can make them eat again.
3. Gentle on the Stomach
Chicken broth is light, easy to digest, and soothing — ideal for cats with:
- Mild nausea
- Stomach upset
- Anxiety around eating
4. Provides Amino Acids & Collagen
Homemade broth includes:
- Collagen
- Glucosamine
- Gelatin
These may support joint health, immunity, and digestive well-being.
5. Helps Senior Cats
Older cats with dental issues may struggle with dry food.
A little broth softens kibble and makes meals easier to chew.
The Big Warning: Not All Chicken Broth Is Safe
This is where many cat owners get confused.
❌ Never give your cat store-bought broth
Most packaged broths contain:
- Onion powder (toxic)
- Garlic powder (severely toxic)
- Salt (dangerous for kidneys)
- Spices
- Additives
- MSG
Even small amounts of onion or garlic can damage a cat’s red blood cells.
❌ Avoid chicken soup, stock cubes, masala broth, and gravy
These contain salt, masalas, and seasonings unsafe for cats.
❌ Broth with bones still inside
Bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.
How to Make Safe Chicken Broth for Cats (Vet-Approved Recipe)
Here is the best and safest chicken broth recipe for cats:
Ingredients
- 1–2 pieces of chicken breast or chicken thighs
- 4–5 cups of water
Instructions
- Put chicken and water in a pot.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 60–90 minutes.
- Remove chicken.
- Strain the liquid.
- Let it cool.
- Remove all fat that forms on the top.
- Store in fridge for 3–4 days or freeze in ice cubes.
Optional (but helpful)
Boil chicken bones in water (without seasoning) for 4–6 hours to make bone broth — but remove all bones before feeding.
Do NOT Add
- Salt
- Masala
- Pepper
- Onion
- Garlic
- Oil
- Butter
- Seasoning Mix
Just plain chicken + water.
How Much Chicken Broth Can Cats Drink?
Safe serving size
- 1–2 tablespoons at a time
- Up to 2–3 times per day
- Mix with wet or dry food
- Or offer alone in a bowl
For tiny kittens
- 1 teaspoon at a time
- Only if vet-approved
- Never as a full meal
For sick cats
Broth can supplement hydration but cannot replace veterinary care.
Does Chicken Broth Replace Water or Food?
No — it cannot replace either.
- Cats still need fresh water daily
- Chicken broth should not replace food or become the main diet
Think of broth as a hydration booster or appetite enhancer, not a meal
Which Cats Should Not Drink Chicken Broth?
Avoid broth or consult your vet if your cat has:
- Chronic kidney disease (salt-free broth may still be okay — ask your vet)
- Pancreatitis (avoid fatty broth)
- Severe diarrhea (may dehydrate if given instead of food)
- Allergies to chicken
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) — may or may not tolerate broth
Always start with a small amount.
Signs Chicken Broth Doesn’t Suit Your Cat
Stop immediately if you notice:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gas and bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Skin itching (possible chicken allergy)
Frequently Asked Questions
It can help by adding hydration, but pumpkin is more effective.
Consider linking to Can cats eat pumpkin?
Yes — if plain, strained, and unsalted.
Only tiny amounts and only if:
1. No seasoning
2. No salt
3. Fully strained
Final Verdict: Can Cats Drink Chicken Broth?
Yes — cats can safely drink plain, homemade chicken broth, and it can support hydration, digestion, appetite, and overall well-being. It should always be free of salt, onion, garlic, and any seasoning. When prepared correctly, chicken broth is one of the best human liquids you can safely share with your cat.
If you stick to the vet-safe recipe and feed moderate amounts, chicken broth can be a truly healthy addition to your cat’s routine.