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My cat ate expired cat food. Should I worry and what to watch for?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 8 lbs

My cat got into an old bag of kitten food that expired 3 years ago. Will he be ok?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Catherine Stecyk

Veterinarian

Published on September 5th, 2018

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It is difficult to know how Pumpkin will tolerate the expired food. If it had any evidence of mold, he may experience some gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea over the next 24-48 hours. If you notice that he is more lethargic/sleepier than usual, loses his appetite, vomits or has diarrhea, I would have him evaluated by your veterinarian. He may require some symptomatic gastrointestinal support. If he continues to act normally at home (eating, drinking, urinating and passing normal stools), and he is otherwise healthy, I think he should be OK! (And I would definitely throw out that old bag of food!). I hope this is helpful!

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