Can Cats Eat Twizzlers? A Complete Safety Guide for Cat Owners

As a cat owner, you’ve probably noticed your feline friend staring longingly at your snacks—especially brightly colored, chewy treats like Twizzlers. But before you give in to those pleading eyes, it’s crucial to ask: Are Twizzlers safe for cats?

The short answer is No, but the full explanation is more nuanced. Unlike dogs, which often react immediately to toxic foods (like chocolate), cats may not show instant symptoms from eating Twizzlers. However, long-term risks—including obesity, diabetes, and digestive issues—make this candy a poor choice for feline diets.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• What’s in Twizzlers? (And why each ingredient is risky for cats)
• What happens if a cat eats Twizzlers? (Emergency signs vs. mild reactions)
• Safe alternatives (Healthy, vet-approved treats cats actually enjoy)
• Common myths (Do cats even like sweets? Can a tiny piece hurt them?)

By the end, you’ll know exactly why Twizzlers should stay in your snack drawer—not your cat’s bowl.

Also Read: Can Cats Eat Edamame?

What Are Twizzlers Made Of? (Breaking Down the Ingredients)

Twizzlers are a type of chewy licorice candy, but they don’t actually contain real licorice root (which is toxic to cats). Instead, their main ingredients include:

1. Sugar & Corn Syrup

Why It’s Bad for Cats:

• Cats lack taste receptors for sweetness (Scientific American 2021) so they don’t enjoy sugar like humans do.
• Their bodies aren’t designed to process carbs efficiently. Over time, excess sugar can lead to obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay (Cornell Feline Health Center).

Also Read: Can Cats Eat Mushrooms?

2. Wheat Flour & Gluten

Potential Risks:

• Some cats have gluten sensitivities, leading to vomiting or diarrhea (International Cat Care, 2023).
• Even if your cat isn’t allergic, wheat offers no nutritional value for obligate carnivores.

3. Artificial Colors & Flavors

• Red Dye #40, a common Twizzlers ingredient, has been linked to allergies and hyperactivity in pets (FDA 2023).

4. Palm Oil & Preservatives

• These additives can cause digestive upset, especially in cats with sensitive stomachs.

Also Read: Can Cats Eat Mochi?

What Happens If a Cat Eats Twizzlers? (Emergency vs. Mild Reactions)

Mild Cases (Small Amounts)

If your cat sneaks a tiny bite (less than half an inch), they’ll likely be fine—but watch for:

• Mild vomiting or diarrhea (from sugar/flour irritation)
• Lethargy (due to blood sugar spikes)

What to Do:

• Offer fresh water to help flush out the sugar.
• Monitor for 24 hours. If symptoms worsen, call your vet.

Emergency Signs (Large Amounts or Allergic Reactions)

Seek immediate vet care if your cat shows:

• Choking/gagging (Twizzlers can get stuck in the throat)
• Swelling or hives (sign of an allergic reaction to dyes)
• Excessive drooling or tremors (rare, but possible with artificial sweeteners)

Read: Can Cats Eat Moths?

Why Sugar Is Especially Dangerous for Cats

Unlike humans, cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their digestive systems are optimized for protein—not carbs or sugar. Here’s how sugar harms them:

1. Diabetes Risk

• Cats fed high-sugar diets are 3x more likely to develop diabetes (Diabetes Mellitus in Cats).

2. Obesity & Fatty Liver Disease

• Excess sugar turns into fat, leading to weight gain and hepatic lipidosis (a life-threatening liver condition).

3. Dental Problems

• Sugar feeds harmful mouth bacteria, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Read: Can Cats Eat Dragon Fruit?

Safe & Healthy Alternatives to Twizzlers

Instead of risking your cat’s health with candy, try these vet-approved treats:

1. High-Protein Snacks

• Cooked chicken or turkey (no seasoning, bones, or skin)
• Freeze-dried salmon (rich in omega-3s)

2. Commercial Cat Treats

Look for grain-free, low-carb options like:

• PureBites Freeze-Dried Liver
• Dental Treats (helps clean teeth)

3. Cat Grass & Catnip

• Oat grass or wheatgrass aids digestion.
• Organic catnip is a safe, stimulating treat

Interesting Read: Why does my cat’s breath smells like fish?

Debunking Common Myths About Cats & Sweets

Myth: “Cats like sweets!”

• Fact: Cats can’t taste sweetness due to missing taste receptors. They’re drawn to fat and protein, not sugar.

Myth: “A tiny piece won’t hurt.

• Fact: Even small amounts of sugar add up over time, increasing diabetes risk.

Myth: “Licorice is natural, so it’s safe.

• Fact: Real licorice root is toxic to cats, but Twizzlers use artificial flavoring (which is still unhealthy).