Can cats eat bay leaf?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
Essential oils cause vomiting and the rigid leaf can injure or block the gut.
Why
Bay leaves are toxic to cats and a physical hazard, so avoid them.
Can cats eat bay leaf, and why?
Bay leaves are toxic to cats and a physical hazard, so avoid them. Essential oils cause vomiting and the rigid leaf can injure or block the gut.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
Warning — what to watch for
Essential oils cause vomiting and the rigid leaf can injure or block the gut.
If your cat has eaten bay leaf, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat bay leaf?
Unsafe. Bay leaves are toxic to cats and a physical hazard, so avoid them.
What happens if my cat eats bay leaf?
Essential oils cause vomiting and the rigid leaf can injure or block the gut. If your cat has eaten bay leaf, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is bay leaf poisonous to cats?
Unsafe. Bay leaves are toxic to cats and a physical hazard, so avoid them.
Check bay leaf for another pet