Is Tea Safe for Cats? Caffeine, Herbal Teas and Tea Tree Oil Warnings
A cup of tea left on the coffee table is the sort of thing a curious cat will investigate. Many people drink tea for its calming qualities, but for cats, it is a different story. Between caffeine, essential oils and plant compounds, tea is best kept away from pets.
Caffeine in tea
Black, green, white and oolong teas contain caffeine and related stimulants called methylxanthines. Cats are highly sensitive to caffeine, which affects the nervous system and heart. A cup of tea contains roughly 25 to 50 milligrams of caffeine, and tea leaves and bags contain far more. Signs of toxicity include restlessness, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, tremors, panting, high temperature and seizures. See is caffeine toxic to cats.
A few licks of a cup are unlikely to cause serious harm in a healthy adult cat, but a lot of tea, or a chewed tea bag or leaves, can be dangerous, particularly for kittens and small cats.
Decaf and iced tea
Decaffeinated tea still contains a little caffeine. Iced and bottled tea often contains sugar, sweeteners such as xylitol, lemon and flavorings. See is xylitol toxic to cats.
Herbal teas
Herbal teas are not true teas, and are made from flowers, leaves, roots and spices. Cats have a limited ability to process some plant compounds, so there is no guarantee that a herbal tea is safe.
- Chamomile. A small amount is likely harmless, but in large amounts can cause vomiting. Chamomile belongs to the daisy family, which can cause reactions in sensitive cats.
- Peppermint and spearmint, which contain oils that can irritate the stomach.
- Ginger, fennel and others, in small amounts, are less risky, but unnecessary.
- Blends with essential oils, such as citrus oils, eucalyptus and wintergreen. See essential oils and cats.
- Teas with licorice, valerian or kava, which can affect cats.
- Detox and weight-loss teas, which often contain strong herbs and laxatives.
Tea tree oil: a serious danger
Tea tree oil, also called melaleuca oil, is not tea. It is a concentrated essential oil that is toxic to cats, whether swallowed or applied to the skin. Signs include drooling, weakness, lack of coordination, tremors, low body temperature and liver damage. Never use tea tree oil on a cat, and keep products that contain it, such as some shampoos, flea products and diffusers, away from pets. See cat poisoning: what to do.
What about chewed tea bags and leaves
Tea bags contain concentrated leaves, and may have staples, strings and tags, which are a choking and intestinal risk. See linear foreign body in cats. Used tea leaves in a compost bin or trash can are also tempting, so keep lids closed.
What to do if your cat drank tea
- A few licks of weak tea: watch for restlessness or vomiting, and offer water.
- A lot of tea, or any tea bag or leaves: call your vet or an animal poison hotline, with the type of tea and the amount, as well as your cat's weight.
- Signs such as tremors, a racing heart, seizures or collapse: go to an emergency clinic.
Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
Safer ways to relax your cat
If your cat is anxious, try calming routines, safe spaces and pheromone products. See how to calm an anxious cat and do cat pheromone diffusers work. Provide fresh water. See how to get a cat to drink more water.
Storage tips
Keep cups covered, and dispose of tea bags in a lidded bin. Keep dried herbs and tins in a cupboard.
How much caffeine is dangerous?
The toxic dose of caffeine in cats is not exactly defined, but signs may appear at doses around 20 milligrams per kilogram, and more serious ones at higher doses. A small cat of 4 kilograms could be affected by around 80 milligrams, which is about a strong cup of tea, or a tea bag eaten whole. That is why a chewed bag is a bigger concern than a lick. Always give your vet the amount and type.
Matcha and concentrated products
Matcha is powdered whole tea leaf, so a spoonful holds much more caffeine than a cup of brewed tea. Energy drinks and supplements contain even more. Keep these products locked away. Powders are easy for cats to lick from spills.
Bubble tea and sweet drinks
Bubble tea contains caffeine, sugar, milk and tapioca pearls, which are choking hazards. Sweetened tea may contain xylitol. Do not share. See is xylitol toxic to cats.
Cat teas and calming products
Some pet stores sell herbal blends for cats. Their safety and effectiveness are not well proven. Ask your vet before using any herbal product, particularly if your cat has health conditions or takes medicines. Never use essential oils to calm a cat. See essential oils and cats.
Keeping your tea time cat-safe
Use a lid for your cup, and wash it soon after. Dispose of used bags in a closed bin. Keep tea tins and tea tree oil bottles up high. Educate guests who may leave cups on low tables.
When to see a vet
See a vet immediately if your cat shows tremors, a racing heart or seizures after eating tea. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Can cats drink tea?
It is not recommended, since caffeine is toxic and herbal ingredients vary.
Is decaf tea safe?
It still contains traces of caffeine, and is not a good choice.
Is chamomile tea safe?
A lick may be fine, but concentrated forms can cause vomiting, and there is no benefit.
Is tea tree oil safe for cats?
No. It is toxic, and should not be used on cats.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- International Cat CareVeterinary-reviewed advice on feline health, behavior and welfare.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control CenterToxic plants and foods lists, plus a 24-hour helpline.
- Pet Poison Helpline24-hour poison advice staffed by veterinary toxicologists.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
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.