Can cats eat cinnamon?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
The essential oils can cause mouth irritation and stomach upset; cats are sensitive to oils.
Why
Cinnamon can irritate cats and is best avoided.
Can cats eat cinnamon, and why?
Cinnamon can irritate cats and is best avoided. The essential oils can cause mouth irritation and stomach upset; cats are sensitive to oils.
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
The essential oils can cause mouth irritation and stomach upset; cats are sensitive to oils.
If your cat has eaten cinnamon, 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 cinnamon?
Caution. Cinnamon can irritate cats and is best avoided.
What happens if my cat eats cinnamon?
The essential oils can cause mouth irritation and stomach upset; cats are sensitive to oils. If your cat has eaten cinnamon, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is cinnamon poisonous to cats?
Caution. Cinnamon can irritate cats and is best avoided.
Check cinnamon for another pet