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My dog ate cat food and is sleepy and scratching. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 20 lbs

my 3 year old puppy ate cat food and now seems to be very sleepy and not himself. He also has been scratching more around his neck and back legs. Is there something I can give him that will help with the reaction? He is eating fine and using the bathroom like usual.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 11th, 2019

Hello. There is nothing dangerous from eating cat food. It does have a higher fat content, so it is not recommended as a regular diet, but an occasional bite ot two is fine. It is possible that he may be allergic to something in the cat food ( fish? ), so keep him from accessing the cat food. If the itching continues, please see your vet as we are unable to recommend any medications on this site. There are many choices when it comes to itchy dogs. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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