Can Cats Eat Cinnamon

Cinnamon is not acutely toxic to cats in very small amounts, but it can cause irritation and should be kept away from cats. The ASPCA lists cinnamon as non-toxic, but this doesn't mean it's safe or appropriate — cinnamon contains compounds that irritate cats' sensitive systems. Here's what you need to know.

Why Cinnamon Is Problematic for Cats

Cinnamaldehyde and Coumarin

Cinnamon contains two compounds that are problematic for cats:

• Cinnamaldehyde: The compound responsible for cinnamon's flavor and smell. Cats lack the liver enzymes to process it efficiently, and it can cause irritation to the mouth, skin, and digestive tract.
• Coumarin: Found especially in Cassia cinnamon (the most common type sold in the US). Coumarin is a blood thinner and can cause liver damage with repeated exposure. Ceylon cinnamon has much lower coumarin levels.

Respiratory Irritation

Cinnamon powder is a fine particulate that can irritate a cat's sensitive respiratory tract if inhaled. Cats that sniff cinnamon powder may sneeze, cough, or experience respiratory distress. Essential oil of cinnamon is particularly dangerous and can cause severe respiratory irritation.

Skin and Mouth Irritation

Direct contact with cinnamon can cause skin irritation, redness, and burning sensations. Eating cinnamon can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting.

Cinnamon Essential Oil: Much More Dangerous

Cinnamon essential oil is far more concentrated than ground cinnamon and is significantly more dangerous. Cats are particularly sensitive to essential oils because they lack certain liver enzymes needed to metabolize them. Cinnamon essential oil can cause:

• Severe mouth and throat irritation
• Vomiting
• Liver damage
• Respiratory distress

Never use cinnamon essential oil around cats or apply it to their skin or fur.

What If My Cat Ate a Small Amount of Cinnamon?

A tiny lick of cinnamon from a baked good is unlikely to cause serious harm. Monitor for mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, or coughing. If your cat ate a significant amount of cinnamon or was exposed to cinnamon essential oil, contact your vet.

Cinnamon-Containing Foods to Keep Away from Cats

• Cinnamon rolls and pastries
• Apple cinnamon products
• Cinnamon-flavored oatmeal
• Cinnamon gum and candy
• Cinnamon essential oil diffusers (respiratory risk)

Better Treat Alternatives

For safe, cat-appropriate treats with no irritating spices, Blue Buffalo Wilderness Crunchy Cat Treats Salmon Flavor provide high-quality protein with natural ingredients. Keep fresh water available with a Cat Water Fountain Stainless Steel (73oz/2.2L) to support hydration.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon is not acutely toxic to cats in tiny amounts, but it causes irritation and should be kept away from cats. Cinnamon essential oil is significantly more dangerous and should never be used around cats. Skip the cinnamon and choose cat-appropriate treats instead.