Cinnamon is not inherently poisonous to cats, but in excessive amounts, it can cause allergic reactions and potential health issues. It’s essential to note that while the ASPCA does not classify cinnamon as toxic, a cat might still exhibit symptoms of discomfort or illness depending on the quantity ingested.
This article was written in collaboration with a team of experienced DVMs (doctors of veterinary medicine). Thanks to their expertise, we can offer accurate and up-to-date insights on the potential risks associated with various plants, including cinnamon, and their effects on cats. Furthermore, our findings have been cross-referenced with high-authority websites such as ASPCA and PetMD to ensure comprehensive and reliable information.
Can Cats Eat Cinnamon?
Although cinnamon is considered non-toxic to cats, there are a few things to keep in mind when using this spice around cats. Cinnamon can be poisonous at certain concentrations, thus it’s not really safe for cats. You must take precautions to avoid exposing your cat to high levels of this spice. Coumarin is a chemical found in cinnamon. Cats’ livers are unable to break down this chemical, and high levels of cinnamon can produce allergic reactions as well as poisoning. Cinnamon poisoning can result in liver failure and other organ failures.
Food and beverages, as well as powdered cinnamon, are the types of cinnamon with the lowest risk. Because the amount of coumarin in any of these varieties is so little, your cat is unlikely to experience an allergic reaction. Cinnamon essential oil poses a far bigger risk. This has a higher coumarin content.
Cinnamon is unlikely to cause an allergic or poisonous reaction in your cat if you prepare, consume, or drink it at home. Just make sure any leftovers, such as cinnamon sticks in cups, are carefully disposed of. If you have cinnamon powder spillage, try moving your cat to another room while you clean it up. Make sure you don’t acquire any powder on your hands that could end up on their bodies.
It is not advisable to use any diffusers or essential oils containing cinnamon in the presence of your cat. If you do wish to use these around your cat, we recommend being very careful. Make sure no essential oil is spilled where your cat might sniff it. Do not pet your cat if you have essential oils on your hands.
The first step in selecting whether or not to use cinnamon safely around your cats is to understand the risks.
What is Cinnamon?
Cinnamon is a spice that is commonly used in lattes and toast. However, for thousands of years, extracts from the cinnamon tree’s bark, leaves, blossoms, fruits, and roots have been utilized in traditional medicine all across the world. It can be found in a variety of foods and is utilized in cooking and baking.
Cinnamon is the name given to various tree species as well as the commercial spice products produced by some of them. All belong to the Lauraceae family’s Cinnamomum genus. Cinnamomum species are only cultivated commercially for spice. Although Cinnamomum verum is commonly referred to as “real cinnamon,” most cinnamon in worldwide commerce is derived from the related species Cinnamomum cassia, also known as “cassia.” In 2018, Indonesia and China produced nearly 40% and 30% of the world’s supply of cinnamon, respectively.
Keeping Cats Away From Cinnamon
Most cats dislike the smell of cinnamon because it is too strong for their sensitive scent receptors. As you probably already know, cats dislike strong, unfamiliar scents. You probably also know that cinnamon is a strong, pungent smell. Every cat has its own characteristics, so some cats dislike the smell of cinnamon while others are unlikely to be affected.
Plants to Avoid For Your Cats
If you are a cat owner and unsure if the plants growing in your yard are harmful to your cats, check out this list of toxic plants for cats. You can also check our list of non-toxic plants for cats.
