Herbs & spices
Can cats eat ginger?
A tiny amount is unlikely to harm, but don’t give ginger to cats without veterinary advice.
Why Large amounts can cause stomach irritation; may affect blood clotting
By Maya HartIf your cat ate some
- A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset.
- Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
Signs to watch for
- Heartburn-like discomfort, drooling
- Vomiting or diarrhoea after a lot
How much, how often
Not recommended.
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories
Serving it safely
- Fresh, grated, in tiny amounts
- Avoid ginger biscuits — sugar, and sometimes nutmeg or raisins
- Ask your vet before giving it to pets on medication or before surgery
Dogs and cats, side by side
Dogs In moderation
A small amount of fresh ginger is safe for most dogs. It is sometimes suggested for nausea, but speak to your vet first, especially if your dog takes other medicines.
How much: A tiny pinch of fresh grated ginger in food.
Can dogs eat ginger?Cats In moderation
A tiny amount is unlikely to harm, but don’t give ginger to cats without veterinary advice.
How much: Not recommended.
The details
Ginger is widely used for nausea in people, and some owners try it for travel sickness in dogs. Evidence in dogs is limited, and veterinary anti-nausea medicines are more reliable. Ginger may affect blood clotting, so it isn’t recommended for pets with bleeding problems, on blood thinners, or before an operation.
Safer treats your cat can have instead
Questions owners ask
Can cats eat ginger?
A tiny amount is unlikely to harm, but don’t give ginger to cats without veterinary advice.
How much ginger can a cat have?
Not recommended.
What makes ginger risky for cats?
Large amounts can cause stomach irritation; may affect blood clotting.
What are the signs to watch for in cats?
heartburn-like discomfort, drooling, vomiting or diarrhoea after a lot.
What should I do if my cat ate ginger?
A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
Is ginger safe for dogs too?
A small amount of fresh ginger is safe for most dogs. It is sometimes suggested for nausea, but speak to your vet first, especially if your dog takes other medicines.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
