Cats are finicky and curious creatures who always seem to take that curiosity to the next level when observing humans eat. Our food intrigues them with its salty flavors and rich smells. It can be too much for a cat to resist at times. Cats are carnivores, meaning their diet consists entirely of meat, but that does not seem to stop them from snagging something off our plates occasionally.
Which Spices and Seasonings are Toxic to Cats?
Many foods are off-limits to cats because they can be toxic in one way or another. Seasoning is a hidden culprit since it might not be completely apparent that the treat your cat is begging for is harmful to them. Some seasoning forms aren’t outright toxic but can be if enough is consumed, like salt. Cats do not require the same types of nutrients as we do, so even a tiny amount of salt, garlic powder, and others can cause kidney failure or death. Let’s dive into what we know as the most common spices and seasonings cats are curious about.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon can show up in some rather sneaky places like mixed into hot chocolate, coffee, cookies, and even meat. Cats have a strong sense of smell, and scents that we might normally find pleasant can be overpowering for their small noses. Cinnamon is one such spice. It is not harmful to cats in small doses but does typically act as a feline repellant. If you have an oddball cat (like any of them aren’t) that likes cinnamon, a light dusting on their food is perfectly safe.
Salt
Salt can be deadly to cats and humans. In humans, it can lead to high blood pressure and hypertension. Cats, on the other hand, are more susceptible to kidney issues caused by too much sodium. However, salt is also an essential electrolyte for them and us, along with chloride and potassium. Having too little can create an imbalance and cause severe issues and kidney failure.
Oddly enough, some cat foods have high sodium content, which increases the thirst and urination in felines and keeps their urinary tract free of blockages. If your cat already has renal issues, it’s best to stick to a low-sodium diet to avoid the kidneys crashing entirely. For damage to occur, it only takes an amount of 3/4 of a teaspoon of salt to throw their sensitive systems out of whack. However, a little salt here or there will not harm a healthy feline. Watch out for sneaky places salt hides, like in Play-Doh.
Chives
Chives are a great addition to many cooked foods, and some of them have a way of attracting your cat, like mashed potatoes. Chives, however, are toxic even in small increments in cats. They are part of the allium family, including garlic and onions, which are incredibly toxic to cats and dogs.
The first signs of poisoning will have your pet feeling very nauseous and potentially having diarrhea. Both symptoms can be overlooked as an upset stomach and not poisoning. Along with those symptoms, cats can become lethargic, have a rapid heartbeat, have seizures, fall into a coma, and die.
Mint
Mint is another herb that can appear in unexpected places. It can be grown in gardens or found in the wild. Mint is also found in candy, cookies, and many recipes. Though not fatal, mint can lead your cat to vomiting, diarrhea, and an expensive vet visit.
Oregano
Oregano is used in Italian dishes and can add a nice flavor to pizza or pasta. However, it isn’t suitable for cats. Oregano will cause your cat to vomit and have diarrhea. If ingested in large amounts or over days/weeks, it can cause liver damage. This herb is also found in essential oils and can be very harmful if dispersed in the air for fragrance.
German Chamomile
Chamomile flowers are beautiful and daisy-like. It tends to grow wild in many places, making it challenging to keep your cat safe if they go outdoors. Chamomile also appears in essential oils, lotions, soap, and more. If your cat ingests it, it can cause them to become lethargic, nauseous, have diarrhea, have an allergic reaction, stop eating, and have dermatitis. The long-term side effects can cause a bleeding disorder in your cat.
Foxglove
Foxglove is one of the most dangerous herbs and spices on our list. These beautiful bell-shaped flowers can be deadly to cats. Foxglove grows wild in some mountain regions and is common in gardens. If your cat decides to eat some of these flowers, vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly heart failure will occur. This can cause your cat to become weak and collapse.
At Least Catnip’s Safe, Right?
Sometimes, it can seem like our worlds are dangerous for cats. However, most toxic plants and foods can easily be kept away from your cat. It may seem daunting to figure out everything that can harm your fur-kid. Still, just as you would with a baby, being a responsible pet owner is essential. Many books are available detailing the toxic materials that cats need to avoid. If you wonder whether something is safe for your cat, call your vet and ask. The internet can be filled with discrepancies, and you might end up with the wrong answer, which could mean a sick cat and a costly vet bill.
Most cats will not bother plants that can harm them. Spices have a strong smell and flavor, so it’s unlikely you’ll find your cat chomping down on a clove of garlic, but these toxic ingredients can end up in tasty home-cooked foods that your cat will be attracted to. Every cat is different, and kitty-proofing your foods and plants is essential. Be sure to check out our article covering which plants are cat-safe and edible.
