Is Nutmeg Toxic to Cats? Myristicin, Spices and Holiday Baking

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Autumn and winter bring pies, spiced lattes and eggnog, and with them a pantry full of spices that cats find fascinating. Nutmeg is one that deserves respect.

Why nutmeg is a problem

Nutmeg contains myristicin, a compound with hallucinogenic and toxic effects in large amounts. Animals that eat enough ground nutmeg, or a whole nut, may become disoriented, nauseated and unwell. In cats, cases are uncommon, but the risk is real, particularly with small bodies.

Signs of nutmeg poisoning

• Vomiting and drooling.
• Disorientation, drunk-like walking.
• Agitation or lethargy.
• Rapid heart rate.
• Dilated pupils.
• Tremors.
• Abdominal pain.
• Seizures, in severe cases.

Signs may appear within hours and last a day or more. See cat emergency warning signs and seizures in cats.

How much is dangerous?

There is no exact figure. The toxic dose depends on the cat's weight and the form of nutmeg. A pinch in a baked slice is unlikely to be serious, but a spoonful of ground nutmeg, a whole nut, or nutmeg essential oil could be. When in doubt, call a vet.

Common sources

• Spice jars, and whole nutmegs, which cats may bat around.
• Baked goods: pumpkin pie, gingerbread, spice cake, cookies.
• Eggnog. Contains alcohol, dairy and sugar. See is alcohol dangerous for cats and can cats drink milk.
• Pumpkin spice drinks and snacks.
• Potpourri, candles and diffusers containing nutmeg oil. See essential oils and cats.
• Savory dishes, such as creamy sauces.

Other holiday spices

• Cinnamon. Large amounts can irritate the mouth and cause vomiting. Cinnamon oil is dangerous.
• Cloves. Contain eugenol, toxic to cats.
• Garlic and onion powders. See are onions and garlic toxic to cats.
• Chili and pepper. Irritating.
• Ginger. Small amounts are likely fine, but not necessary.
• Allspice, which contains eugenol.

See holiday hazards for cats.

Other hazards in spiced foods

• Sugar and fat. See pancreatitis in cats.
• Raisins and currants. See are grapes and raisins toxic to cats.
• Chocolate. See is chocolate toxic to cats.
• Xylitol. See is xylitol toxic to cats.
• Nuts. See can cats eat nuts.

What to do if your cat eats nutmeg

1. Remove access. Take away the spice, and check how much is missing.
2. Call your vet or a poison helpline straight away. Give your cat's weight, the product and the amount.
3. Do not induce vomiting unless told to.
4. Watch for signs, and note times.
5. Go to a clinic if signs appear.
6. Bring packaging.

Treatment may include supportive care, fluids, anti-nausea medication and monitoring. See cat poisoning: what to do.

Prevention

• Store spices in closed cupboards.
• Keep baking out of reach.
• Do not share pie or spiced treats.
• Close trash lids.
• Avoid scented candles and diffusers around cats.
• Supervise holiday gatherings.

Is pumpkin safe?

Plain cooked pumpkin is safe in small amounts, but pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices. See can cats eat pumpkin.

The bottom line

Nutmeg is best kept away from cats. A crumb in a baked treat is unlikely to hurt, but do not feed spiced foods, and call a vet if a cat swallows a lot.

Seasonal entertaining and cats

Holidays bring a rush of cooking, guests and open bags, and cats take advantage of the chaos. Place baked goods, spice jars and takeaway containers on high shelves or in cupboards before guests arrive. Ask visitors not to share food with pets, and check the floor after parties for dropped pieces. Cats are good at finding crumbs in odd corners.

Candles, diffusers and potpourri

Spice-scented products can contain concentrated oils, and cats are particularly sensitive to some essential oils because their livers process certain compounds slowly. Avoid using diffusers in rooms where your cat spends time, and keep potpourri out of reach. If your cat licks a spilled oil or chews a scented decoration, call your vet.

Telling your vet what happened

When calling about a possible poisoning, give your cat's weight, the name of the product, the amount you think was eaten, how long ago it happened and any signs you have seen. Having the label or jar in hand saves time. Your vet will tell you whether to monitor at home or come in, and will not be annoyed by an early call.

When to see a vet

See a vet right away if your cat eats nutmeg and shows any signs. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.