TailVilleWhy
Cashews aren't among the nuts known to be toxic, like macadamias or walnuts. They are fatty, though, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea and, in larger amounts, pancreatitis. Store-bought cashews are often salted, honey-roasted or mixed with macadamias. Small dogs can choke on a whole nut.
How to give it / if eaten
Crush plain, unsalted cashews and give half a nut to small dogs or one or two to large dogs, only occasionally. Cats don't need them. If it was a mixed-nut pack, check whether macadamias or walnuts were in it.
Watch for these signs
Large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy. Repeated vomiting, belly pain and poor appetite over 1โ3 days may mean pancreatitis. Rarely, a nut allergy causes itching or facial swelling.
FAQ
My dog ate a handful of mixed nuts.
Mixed nuts may include macadamias or walnuts, which can be dangerous. Check the package and call your vet right away.
I heard raw cashews are toxic.
The shell contains an irritant oil (urushiol), so all cashews sold in stores are heat-treated, even those labeled 'raw.' That particular risk is essentially gone.
General information only. Weight, age and health conditions change how a pet reacts, so ask your vet if you are worried.