Herbs & spices
Can cats eat nutmeg?
The same compound affects cats. Keep spice jars closed and away from curious cats.
Why Myristicin
By Maya HartIf your cat ate some
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline straight away, even if your pet seems fine.
- Tell them what was eaten, roughly how much, when, and your pet’s weight.
- Do not try to make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to.
- Signs can last up to two days.
Signs to watch for
- Disorientation or hallucinations
- Fast heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Dry mouth, stomach pain
- Seizures (large amounts)
Dogs and cats, side by side
Dogs Toxic
No. The small amount in a bite of baked goods is unlikely to harm, but larger amounts of nutmeg can cause disorientation, a racing heart and seizures in dogs.
Can dogs eat nutmeg?Cats Toxic
No. The same compound affects cats. Keep spice jars closed and away from curious cats.
The details
Nutmeg poisoning is most common around festive holidays, when baking and spiced drinks are everywhere. The amounts in a slice of cake are low; poisoning usually follows a dog getting into the spice cupboard or eating a large amount of spiced food.
Many baked goods that contain nutmeg also contain raisins, chocolate or xylitol, which are more dangerous — check the full recipe before deciding whether it is an emergency.
Safer treats your cat can have instead
Questions owners ask
Can cats eat nutmeg?
No. The same compound affects cats. Keep spice jars closed and away from curious cats.
What makes nutmeg risky for cats?
Myristicin.
What are the signs to watch for in cats?
disorientation or hallucinations, fast heart rate, high blood pressure, dry mouth, stomach pain, seizures (large amounts).
What should I do if my cat ate nutmeg?
Call your vet or a pet poison helpline straight away, even if your pet seems fine. Tell them what was eaten, roughly how much, when, and your pet’s weight. Do not try to make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to. Signs can last up to two days.
Is nutmeg safe for dogs too?
No. The small amount in a bite of baked goods is unlikely to harm, but larger amounts of nutmeg can cause disorientation, a racing heart and seizures in dogs.
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
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