Can Cats Eat Nutmeg? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ
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The holidays are full of sugar and spice. You probably have your baking ingredients ready to go this season. But with that comes the safety of our own food products around our beloved pets.
Nutmeg is a spice, but is it toxic to cats? Yes. A small amount of nutmeg may lead to a mild stomach upset, but large quantities can have dire consequences. Ipso facto, when it comes to nutmeg, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Let’s find out why.
What Is Nutmeg?
Nutmeg is a commonly used kitchen spice that comes from a nutmeg tree called Myristica fragrans in Indonesia. These trees grow hard casings with small fruits inside. After these components are removed and dried, they are ground into powder and placed in the stores.
Nutmeg is used in all kinds of baking and sweet-inspired dishes. This spice is even more pungent than cinnamon, so it’s best enjoyed in small quantities—for humans. Cats, on the other hand, shouldn’t have nutmeg at all.
Nutmeg Nutrition Facts
Amount Per: 1 tablespoon
| Calories | 36.8 |
| Total Fat | 2.5 g |
| Potassium | 25 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 3.45 g |
| Magnesium | 12.8 mg |
| Iron | 0.21 mg |
Why Is Nutmeg Bad for Cats?
In the seed of the plant, there is a compound called myristicin. This substance is toxic from as little as 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. It is unlikely that your cat would consume enough nutmeg to harm them seriously, but even a small amount can give them an upset stomach or make them feel ill. If you know your cat ate nutmeg, it’s best to seek professional help.
It is unlikely that your cat would consume enough nutmeg to harm them seriously, but even a small amount can give them an upset stomach or make them feel ill. If you know your cat ate nutmeg, it’s best to seek professional help.
If you aren’t sure, you still need to know what to look out for.
Signs of Nutmeg Toxicity
- Upset stomach
- Disorientation
- Increased heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Dry mouth
- Painful abdomen
- Hallucinations
- Tremors
- Seizures
- High body temperature
Signs usually show within a few hours after ingestion and may last up to 48 hours. If you know your cat ate a concerning amount of nutmeg, don’t hesitate to get them to your vet for further evaluation.
Nutmeg in Cooked Food
Nutmeg is not as toxic to pets in cooked foods, but it should still be avoided. The amount of nutmeg in baked items is unlikely to be significant enough to lead to signs of toxicity. So, if your cat took a bite of your holiday dessert, fret not. They will probably be just fine.
However, never offer your cat anything potentially toxic if you know it’s a listed ingredient. If you have baked goods you want to share, do a quick sweep over the ingredients.
Do Cats Like the Taste of Nutmeg?
Nutmeg is a very tantalizing spice because of its spicy, pleasant aroma and unique taste, but do cats feel the same? As with anything else, some cats might be extra curious about this spice while others will show no interest at all.
If your cat likes the taste, make sure to keep an extra eye on them when you have your baking gear out.
Proper Storage for Spices & Herbs
Many spices and herbs are toxic to pets. Because of this, it’s best to completely keep your cats away from your spice cabinet. Keep any of these items in tightly sealed containers, preferably up and away from tiny paws.
Final Thoughts
Nutmeg might be a delicious seasonal spice to add to chai teas, lattes, and desserts, but it’s not good for your cat. Even though small amounts of nutmeg may not seriously harm your feline, it’s best not to take any chances.
If your cat ate an unknown amount of nutmeg, call your vet right away for advice. It’s always better to be safe rather than sorry when it comes to the health of your kitty.
