Quick Answer

Plain Popcorn (Air-Popped) is safe in strict moderation for your Cats. Cats can nibble a piece of air-popped, unsalted, unbuttered popcorn as an occasional curiosity, but it offers no meaningful nutrition for an obligate carnivore. The primary concern is that unpopped or partially popped kernels are hard enough to damage feline teeth and present a choking risk. Additionally, any butter, salt, or seasonings can cause gastrointestinal upset or sodium imbalance. As a treat, it is calorically empty and should never replace meat-based rewards.