Herbs & spices
Can dogs eat nutmeg?
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.
Why Myristicin
By Maya HartIf your dog 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.
Cats Toxic
No. The same compound affects cats. Keep spice jars closed and away from curious cats.
Can cats eat nutmeg?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 dog can have instead
Apples
- Dogs
- Safe
- Cats
- In moderation
Beef
Bell peppers
- Dogs
- Safe
- Cats
- In moderation
Blackberries
- Dogs
- Safe
- Cats
- In moderation
Questions owners ask
Can dogs eat nutmeg?
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.
What makes nutmeg risky for dogs?
Myristicin.
What are the signs to watch for in dogs?
disorientation or hallucinations, fast heart rate, high blood pressure, dry mouth, stomach pain, seizures (large amounts).
What should I do if my dog 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 cats too?
No. The same compound affects cats. Keep spice jars closed and away from curious cats.
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
More foods for dogs
Garlic
Cinnamon
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation
Chives
Ginger
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation