But, you know better than to let her munch on everything she can get her paws on. “Stop giving me that look Ms. McFluffer! You JUST scoffed down an entire bowl of kibble!” And, you can’t let her nibble on chives when you’re not sure whether they can send her to the emergency animal center.

You’re pretty sure you’ve read somewhere that onions and garlic are the worst things your curious creature can chew on, but what’s the deal with chives? They’re pretty similar when we’re talking about the scent and the taste, but are they the same thing? Can cats chew on a chive or two?

You’re not that far off, to be honest! Onion, garlic, AND chives belong to the same family (which makes TOTAL sense, right?) According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), cats can’t eat chives or any of the Alliums.

But, you have nothing to worry about because we’re here to help you figure out how and why to scrap your cat’s pleading meows for a bite.

What are chives?

Starting from the beginning, chives are those tall, long strands of grass that aren’t grass at all. They’re actually herbs that are related to onions, green onions, garlic, shallots, and leeks. They belong to the Allium family – a plant family that has a recognizable, pungent flavor.

Chives are SUPER POPULAR among humans. They’re pretty handy because they add that “je ne sais quoi” to soups, dressing, and dips. They’re particularly aesthetically pleasing when added to egg and potato dishes (can you even imagine Eggs Benedict without the sprinkle of chives on top!?)

And, they’re pretty great on their own. Chives are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. We’re talking about vitamin C, vitamin A, riboflavin, potassium, thiamine, and beta carotene.

These vital nutrients can help boost your immune system, maintain the health of your digestive system, and ensure the proper function of your nervous system. And don’t even get me started on those antioxidants which prevent the onset of cancer, fight inflammation, and improve heart health.

Chives aren’t JUST a garnish worthy of an Instagram post, they’re pretty much a superfood – a nutritional and health bomb that can improve the quality of your life. But, before you and your mischievous munchkin start celebrating, chives don’t really have the same effect on cats.

Can cats eat chives?

That’s right, cats CAN’T eat chives! Our friends over at the ASPCA don’t recommend feeding chives to your curious creature for a good reason. Chives, along with the rest of the Allium family, happen to be extremely toxic to both cats and dogs (kittens and puppies, too). Wait, what!?

We’ve got some explaining to do. Put your science hat on and buckle up because you’re in for a ride! Every member of the Allium family (Allium cepa – onions and green onions, Allium porrum – leeks, Allium sativum – garlic, and Allium schoenoprasum – chives) contains sulfoxides.

What are those? Sulfoxides are compounds that are pretty harmless to your boisterous beast – until she chews on them and turns them into organic sulfur compounds. And boy, we can’t even begin to explain how dangerous these organic sulfur compounds can be for your precious pet.

One of two things can happen when your cat munches on something containing these compounds. She can either experience an uncomfortable yet mild digestive upset, or develop a pretty severe case of poisoning that can lead to anemia. So, how can you know what to expect?

What happens when your cat eats chives?

Cats can’t eat chives, but they also don’t really know that they can’t eat chives. Your mischievous monster might catch a glance of herbs chilling on your kitchen counter and decide to give them a sniff and a bite while you’re busy watching Bridgerton (and pining over the Viscount, of course!)

What happens then!? Unfortunately, you might not notice the symptoms right away because they tend to develop over time. First, she might get a pretty nasty case of diarrhea and vomiting that you might put down to “oh no, you’ve eaten too much again,” and decide against contacting the vet.

Then, a couple of days later, she might lose her appetite and start feeling lethargic and sluggish. That’s the moment you might want to check her gums, and when you notice that they’re pale, contact your vet and ask for an emergency checkup. That’s pretty much the BIGGEST sign you’re dealing with Allium poisoning.

But, there’s another catch! Remember those organic sulfur compounds we mentioned a couple of paragraphs ago? Organic sulfur compounds, when consumed over a longer period of time or excessively at once, damage your cat’s red blood cells.

When left untreated, that damage can lead to anemia – hemolytic anemia, Heinz body anemia, and/or methemoglobinemia to be more precise. Unfortunately, these conditions can be fatal and should be prevented at all costs.

What to do if your cat eats chives?

Your curious creature has a mind of her own and you’ve come to the conclusion she’s probably eaten a bunch of chives before you were able to stop her. So, now you’re left wondering “What do I do now? How do I help her deal with these herbs without causing lasting damage?”

First things first, contact your vet. Even when you’re not 100% sure what’s going on, you have a reason to suspect she might have eaten something she shouldn’t have. Your vet should be able to save you from hours and hours of worry and asking yourself “What’s wrong with her?”

Other than that, you can contact the Pet Poison Hotline or pay a visit to the nearest emergency animal center. Regardless of which route you decide to take, they should be able to walk you through what’s going on and/or offer your cat supportive care and treatment.

Don’t worry, she’s going to feel better the moment that she gets the chives out of her system. The vet (or whoever’s helping her) might induce vomiting or use activated charcoal to prevent her body from absorbing the chives into her digestive system.

Remember, don’t do anything that’s not advised or approved by your vet! Your precious purrincess might need to stay overnight and receive GI medications and IV fluids, but she should be purrfectly fine the moment those chives are out of her system.

How to stop your cat from eating chives?

While that might seem like a misson-impossible type of predicament, there are a couple of things you could do to stop your cat from eating chives. Don’t get me wrong, she might get upset with you and go on an affection strike. But, that’s better than having her suffer from Allium poisoning, right?

Here’s what you do. Remove the chives from your curious creature’s reach. You can hide them somewhere she can’t reach, lock them away or even prevent her from going into the spot in the garden where you’re growing your chives.

Then, give her something else she can munch on. You can always keep a couple of cat treats (or other minuscule morsels) under your sleeve for when she starts meowing your ears off. You can also keep her happy with a couple of toys, which happens to be our next point.

Always keep a couple of toys within your reach. When you notice she’s getting bored and starting to roam around the house looking for trouble, play with her or give her a toy she can chew on without your help (bonus points for a toy that resembles a veggie or an herb!)

Can cats eat other herbs?

Cats CAN eat some other herbs. Goes without saying, but there are some herbs that can cause harm to your cat, which means you should consult with your vet before adding any of them to your cat’s diet. But you can always look for catnip, valerian, thyme, witch hazel, dandelion, basil, cilantro, and rosemary.

These are only some of the most popular ones, but there are even more herbs your precious pet can munch on rather than chives. And remember – never add oregano, mint, tarragon, lemongrass, chamomile, cannabis, or bay leaf to your cat’s diet.

What’s the conclusion? Can cats eat chives?

Cats can ABSOLUTELY NOT eat chives! Chives and other members of the Allium family contain organic sulfur compounds that can cause harm to your cat’s health. Chives can cause digestive problems, chives poisoning, and anemia when left untreated.

Trust me, your precious purrincess should steer clear of chives and other Alliums under every single circumstance out there. There are better things she can munch on, and there are better ways to entertain her curiosity.

That’s right, your mischievous monster seems to have found something fun about a simple shrub of herbs. You’re not even surprised, given the proverbial curiosity that killed the cat, but you’re wondering what’s making her sniff her nose off when she’s presented with a herb bouquet.

You’re considering letting her enjoy a nibble or two, but you’re not completely sure it’s safe for her to munch on something that belongs in a jar of pickles!? Well, you’ve stumbled upon the RIGHT article because we’re here to give you the answers you (and your curious companion!) desperately need.

Our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) don’t seem to have anything against feeding dill to your cat. Don’t get me wrong, some herbs can cause harm to your cat, but dill doesn’t seem to be one of them.

That’s right, cats can eat dill! But, before the two of you put your celebratory hats on and head to your local farmer’s market, you might want to throw a glance at some of the most important things about this tasty herb. Let’s start from the beginning, why don’t we?

What’s the deal with dill?

Let’s be honest here – the moment you read the word “dill,” you think of mouth-watering pickles and finger-licking (or should we say “paw-licking”) salads. But you might be pondering a thing or two about this tasty herb, considering your boisterous beast’s about to munch on some.

So, what’s the deal with dill? Well, dill’s a pretty big deal among herbs because of its various uses among humans. Dill originated from Europe and Asia but has been used among humans around the world for centuries.

What makes dill so much better than many other herbs is the fact that it can be used fresh, dried, or even powdered. You can sprinkle some fresh dill leaves on your potato salad, throw a pinch of dried dill leaves on your tzatziki sauce, or add a generous amount of powdered dill seed to spice up your soup.

And let’s not forget about the fact that dill’s brimming with nutrients that can boost your immune system and improve your health. That’s right – a spatter of dill can provide you with vitamin A, vitamin C, magnesium, manganese, and folate.

What’s the deal with dill and cats, though? Do cats even like dill?

Here’s the thing. Cats like everything they can get their paws on – because they’re cats. And, they seem to love dill because they enjoy the scent, the shrubbiness, and the fact you’re screaming at them to stop.

Can cats eat dill?

“She’s clearly going to munch on that herb whether she hears me or not, but can cats eat dill without getting seriously sick? Someone should stop her, but that someone can’t be me because she’s going to scratch the worried mother out of me the moment I try to get her away from it.”

With that (inner monologue you have every time your cat eats something she shouldn’t) out of the way, we can discuss what’s wrong (and right) about letting your cat nibble on a couple of dill leaves here and there. Dill’s great, but not a natural part of your cat’s diet.

You see, cats are carnivores. They need a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients to survive and thrive. They don’t need fruits, veggies, and herbs the same way humans do. And they don’t even possess the enzymes necessary to break down and digest most foods humans eat on a regular basis.

What does that mean? While cats can eat dill, that doesn’t mean that they should. Wild cats aren’t likely to stumble upon dill and nibble on it while they’re considering chasing after their prey. Not-so-wild cats (like the one you have lying around) aren’t likely to eat dill, either.

Sure, dill’s packed with nutrients that can bring a couple of benefits to your cat’s table. But, we can’t forget about the fact that these nutrients aren’t necessarily what your cat needs. Consuming these nutrients rather than anything else can cause digestive problems, malnourishment, and anorexia.

What’s the point, then? Always consult with your vet before adding anything new to your cat’s diet and make sure to dust off your “catritionist” (cat nutritionist, obviously) diploma. Your cat’s better off munching on carefully crafted cat food and cat treats, anyway.

What’s good about dill?

But, you might want to throw a glance at some of the benefits and drawbacks of feeding dill (and other herbs) to your precious pet. “Can cats reap the dill benefits the same way humans do? Can cats get an allergic reaction from nibbling on dill? Come on, we need answers!”

Here’s the thing. We already know that there are much better things for your precious purrincess to munch on when she’s looking for a pick-me-up. Cat food and cat treats can provide her with just the right nutrients she can actually use to her advantage, and an occasional meaty morsel is sure to make her whiskers spin in delight.

But, that’s not to say that the good old dill doesn’t have anything going on. Dill is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can boost your cat’s immune system, maintain the health of her nervous system, and ensure the proper function of her digestive system.

Trust me, dill has her systems covered with vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese, magnesium, and folate. Vitamin A, for instance, helps your cat battle against various diseases and protects her against numerous bacteria, parasites, and other pesky passengers.

Vitamin C helps boost your cat’s immune system and maintain her overall health. Manganese, magnesium, and folate help her deal with different digestive problems (such as constipation and diarrhea). And, we can’t forget about antioxidants such as terpenoids, flavonoids, and tannins.

Dill’s pretty great, don’t you think? But, before you start adding dill to EVERY. SINGLE. MEAL you ever serve to your cat, you might want to take a look at some of the dirt we managed to dig up, too.

What’s bad about dill?

Dill doesn’t seem to be as dandy as you might think! Cats can eat dill because they aren’t likely to experience severe reactions from a bite or two. But, who’s to say your furry friend will stop there!? Who’s to say she won’t fool around and scoff down the entire thing!?

You might want to have your vet’s number locked, loaded, and ready to go. But, you also might want to take a look at some of the things you can expect on the off chance that munching on herbs doesn’t go as planned. So, what’s bad about dill?

Firstly, consuming excessive amounts of dill can cause digestive problems. “Everything in moderation” seems to be the golden rule of feeding your feline friend anything she shouldn’t eat on a regular basis. She’s got a sensitive tummy that won’t appreciate anything that’s not 100% feline friendly.

So, you might expect to witness nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting if she ever crams down every single herb she could find in your herb garden. Contact your vet (for peace of mind), but don’t panic, because she’s likely going to feel better the moment her system gets rid of anything unwanted.

Secondly, your four-legged friend can experience an allergic reaction to dill. Cats can be allergic to herbs, and dill doesn’t seem to be an exception. That’s why it’s incredibly important to consult with your vet before making significant changes to your cat’s diet.

So, you might want to keep an eye out for symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, coughing, difficulty breathing, wheezing, rashes, hives, and/or digestive problems. Symptoms defer depending on whether your cat sniffed or devoured a little bit of dill. Minus points for this herb!

What’s the deal with dill essential oil?

Repeat after me: “Cats can’t sniff, lick, eat, or do pretty much anything with dill essential oil!”

This might be the moment you start to question everything we’ve talked about so far, but bear with me. “Cats can eat dill but they can’t eat dill essential oil!? Why!?”

The relationship between cats and essential oils seems to be a complicated one. Your cat might look like she came straight from Coachella with her messy hair and a flower crown, but she’s not the biggest fan of the essential oil community.

Most essential oils are poisonous to cats and trust me, you don’t want to experiment to find out which ones aren’t. Some of the most common symptoms of essential oil poisoning are drooling, shaking, difficulty breathing, wheezing, weakness, lethargy, depression, unsteady paws, tremors, and seizures.

Can cats eat dill pickles?

Cats can’t eat dill pickles, but not because of the dill! Cat’s can’t eat pickles because they’re typically packed with salt, seasonings, vinegar (or some other acid), and preservatives. Some of these ingredients can give your cat a tummyache, but some of them are straight-up poisonous to felines.

Let’s start from the beginning. Salt is pretty safe for cats, but only when consumed in minute amounts. When your curious cat consumes too much salt, she’s at risk of sodium toxicity, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, weakness, and other less desirable symptoms.

On the other hand, seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper are detrimental to your cat’s health. Our friends over at the ASPCA urge pet parents to be extremely careful when feeding human foods to cats because of these seasonings.

Vinegar is pretty potent, but that prevents your cat from licking enough vinegar that can cause her harm. Preservatives, on the other hand, don’t have the same safety feature. They’re typically hidden within the food, which sounds even more ominous once you’re aware that they can make your cat super sick.

Can cats eat other herbs?

Yes, cats can eat other herbs! On the off chance that your cat’s intrigued by green cuisine, she might get a kick out of rummaging through your herb garden. She’s free to do so, as long as you’ve done your part and gotten rid of herbs that can cause her harm.

These are some of the herbs that are safe to stay:

-Basil

-Coriander

-Dill

-Echinacea

-Rosemary

-Sage

–Thyme

-Valerian

These are some of the herbs that have to go:

-Oregano

-Alliums (chives, onions, garlic, scallions, leek)

-Lemongrass

–Mint

-Parsley

-Chamomile

In closing

Remember, always consult with your vet before adding any new herbs to your cat’s diet. If you get the green light, feel free to throw a sprinkle of dill on your cat’s meal next time she’s looking for a Sunday snack. Or try out other feline-friendly herbs she might enjoy just as much. Good luck!

That’s the reason why we’re here, right? Your four-legged friend ADORES munching on everything she can get her paws on. And she certainly ADORES munching on everything green and out of the question. We can agree on one thing: she’s a bit odd, isn‘t she?

She could nibble on every single brand of cat food and cat treats. But, she‘s bored with whatever you serve as a part of her breakfast-in-bed routine. She prefers venturing into your herb garden, meowing and purring at every herb, and (eventually) giving them a sniff, a lick, and a bite.

And, you have a bunch of herbs in your herb garden (and even as a part of your kitchen aesthetics). So, your furry friend‘s desire to scoff down every leaf she lays her eyes on seems like less of an if, and more of a when. How can you put an end to that?

Here‘s the thing, you might not have to! According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), cats can eat cilantro. Cilantro contains a bunch of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can benefit your cat’s health.

But, there’s always a but when you’re trying to feed your four-legged friend anything that isn’t supposed to be a part of a cat’s diet. Here’s everything you need to know about cilantro (and cilantro’s relationship with your cat) before drawing a conclusion.

What’s cilantro?

We’ve already mentioned a couple of names humans around the world use when referring to cilantro. Regardless of the name, cilantro’s one of those herbs that’s essential when you’re making Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, or Asian recipes.

Cilantro happens to be an herb that belongs to the family of parsley (which explains the name Chinese parsley, as well as the uncanny resemblance). Cilantro’s leaves can be used both fresh and dry (but, mostly fresh).

And, cilantro’s seeds can be used to make cilantro spice (or coriander spice) which has a completely different aroma. Actually, humans describe cilantro aroma as “peppery and lemony“ for the most part. But, some humans describe the aroma as “soapy”.

Cilantro contains natural aldehyde chemicals in the leaves, and these chemicals are also produced throughout the process of soapmaking. We can agree that being described as “soapy” doesn’t sound that bad when you know what’s contained within these cilantro leaves.

We can’t forget about cilantro’s nutritional and health benefits, can we!? Cilantro’s actually packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Eating cilantro can provide you with healthy levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K, as well as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and manganese.

And as for the health benefits of cilantro, fresh cilantro can help reduce the risk of numerous diseases. We’re talking about heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Not to mention the fact that fresh cilantro can also boost your immune system and maintain the health of your skin and hair (Gigi Hadid, who?!)

Cilantro’s pretty great, but can cats eat cilantro? Can cats reap these benefits? Sure, your cat’s herb garden escapades might have been a spur-of-the-moment thing. But, who’s to say she won’t meow and purr your ears off until you agree to let her have another cilantro fiesta?

Can cats eat cilantro, then?

Whose four-legged hasn‘t stuffed their stomach with a bunch of herbs looking for a quick pick-me-up? Whose four-legged friend hasn‘t turned to meowing and purring everyone‘s ears off looking for something to munch on after scoffing down AN ENTIRE BOWL OF KIBBLE?!

That‘s fine, you can go back to breathing because cats can eat cilantro! On the off chance that your cat’s a big fan of cilantro, feel free to surprise her with a sprinkle or two over her favorite Fancy Feast. Or let her chew on the leaves while you’re enjoying some time off in your garden.

But, before you run off to your local farmer‘s market to get MORE cilantro, keep an eye out for a couple of things. First things first, your cat’s an obligate carnivore. She requires a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in her diet to survive.

She doesn’t require veggies, fruits, and grains the same way humans do. And she doesn’t even possess the enzymes necessary for her digestive system to break down and process most food humans eat on a regular.

Cilantro’s the least of her concerns while she’s on a neverending Keto diet. Cilantro (while packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants) doesn’t really offer much to your cat in terms of her nutritional needs.

Don’t get me wrong, cilantro’s much better than a bunch of other herbs (what would happen if she became obsessed with oregano?). But, cilantro seems completely unnecessary when you think of other cat foods and cat treats she could be munching on.

And, believe it or not, cilantro can have some side effects. Consuming cilantro for the first time when you have a sensitive stomach (speaking for your cat) can cause a bunch of digestive problems, stomach upset, and gastrointestinal irritation. Yikes!

Can cats eat other herbs?

They can and they can’t; cats are never as simple as a “yes” or “no”. They can eat non-toxic plants and safe herbs. But, they have to make sure they don’t accidentally nibble on something they aren’t supposed to eat (oregano!).

Being a cat parent (and a cat lover) you have to make sure you grow the right kind of herbs in your herb garden. Who’s to say your mischievous monsters won’t storm into your herb garden one day and chew on everything she can get her paws on?!

Throw a glance at some of the most common herbs cat parents look up when they’re online. Decide for yourself whether they’re worth growing in your herb garden or not.

1. Calendula

Cats can eat calendula, kind of! Calendula flowers are safe for your four-legged friend, but we can’t say the same about calendula stems and leaves. Calendula stems and leaves contain salicylic acid and that‘s what makes them problematic.

Consuming calendula stems and leaves can cause your cat a bunch of health problems. Calendula does possess anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. But, applying calendula to your cat’s wounds and scars can cause the wound to heal sooner than recommended (and trap the infection inside!).

2. Chamomile

Cats can’t eat chamomile! Actually, cats can eat a bite or two of chamomile flowers without experiencing any adverse reactions. But, they can’t eat anything more than that because chamomile’s beaming with bad stuff.

Tannic acid, anthemic acid, chamazulene, bisabolol, and volatile oil don’t even sound like something your cat should consume on her day off, do they now? Consuming excessive amounts of chamomile can cause chamomile poisoning.

Some of the most common symptoms to keep an eye out for include weakness, bumps and patches on her skin, dermatitis, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact your vet AS SOON AS you notice any of these symptoms.

3. Dandelion

Dandelions are completely safe for your cat! Whether your feline friend prefers to munch on dandelion flowers, dandelion stems, leaves, or even dandelion roots – she’s completely safe. Dandelions don’t contain toxins or anything else that can cause harm to your cat.

4. Catnip

Cats can eat catnip, obviously! There aren‘t any cat parents in this world that haven‘t heard about the potent powers of catnip. Cats ABSOLUTELY ADORE this aromatic herb. They love sniffing it, chewing on it, chasing it around the house, and playing with it.

They become frisky, kittenish, and affectionate when they‘re presented with catnip. Some cat parents might even say that they become high (or at least act like they’re high). That’s understandable since catnip does contain a compound called nepetalactone.

5. Oregano

Cats can’t eat oregano under any circumstances! Fresh, dried, cooked, even powdered – oregano’s off the market for your furry friend. Oregano’s high in substances known as phenols and terpenoids which cats can‘t really break down and process.

Consuming these substances can cause damage to your cat’s digestive system, and lead to a bunch of other health problems (such as anemia). And, the worst form of oregano your cat can consume happens to be oregano oil.

Conclusion

Coming back to our “can cats eat cilantro” thing, let‘s revise what we’ve learned. Cats can eat cilantro because this aromatic herb doesn’t contain pretty much anything that can cause harm to your cat.

But, cilantro doesn’t bring any nutritional value to your cat’s diet. Your cat can munch on cilantro from time to time (when she’s bored of everything else). But, there’s no reason for her to rely on this aromatic herb to provide her with nutritional and health benefits.

We’ve scoured the internet for you and here’s what we found out. Believe it or not, basil’s the least of your concerns when it comes to sharing a paw-licking slice of pizza with your four-legged friend.

According to our friend over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), cats can eat basil. This aromatic herb contains a bunch of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can benefit your cat’s health without causing her a bunch of digestive problems.

“Hmm, has my furry friend become a vegetarian overnight?” Don’t worry, that’s not the reason why she’s suddenly spending her free time exploring your herb garden. She’s probably curious about what you’ve been munching on for the past several weeks and she wants to feel included.

Actually, cats are notorious for chewing on grass whenever they can get their paws on a delicious sample (they’re quite picky when they’re choosing what goes into their stomachs).

Even wild cats take a couple of handfuls (pawfuls?) every now and then to cleanse their palettes and offer a helping hand to their digestive systems. But, can cats eat basil when they’re looking for a quick pick-me-up after a long day of meowing and purring?

What’s basil?

Oh, basil, who wouldn’t love you when you go so well with everything?! Basil is an Italian herb that belongs to the mint family. This aromatic herb’s one of the most popular among humans because of the fresh aroma and peppery flavor.

Basil can be used dried and fresh and can be added to drinks, soups, sweet and savory dishes, and pretty much everything else you’ve got on your mind. And, most importantly, basil brings a bunch of nutritional and health benefits to the table.

Fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants ensure the health of the immune system, help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, and improve blood flow. Basil leaves have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, support liver function, and detoxify the body.

But, these incredible benefits only work for humans. While cats can reap some of the basil’s benefits, they have different nutritional and health needs from humans. Don’t get me wrong, basil’s great for cats… just not in the same way.

“So, my feline friend can eat basil with no repercussions?” Cats can eat basil with no repercussions most of the time. While basil doesn’t contain pretty much anything that could negatively affect your cat’s health, you can’t forget that not every cat’s digestive system works the same way.

So, before you and your cat rush to the nearest Trader Joe’s to buy a month’s worth of basil (for only $2.99 a pack?!), take a breather and give your vet a visit. Who’s to say your cat isn’t allergic to basil or isn’t going to experience digestive problems after a leaf or two?

So, can cats eat basil?

Cats can eat basil. You have nothing to worry about on the off chance that your cat decides she’s bored with her regular Meow Mix and she’s on the market for something a bit more green and leafy. She’s going to be just fine as long as she doesn’t scoff down your entire herb garden.

But, there’s always a but when cats decide to eat something that isn’t supposed to be a regular part of their diet. Cats are carnivores which means they require heaps of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in their diets.

They don’t necessarily require fruits, veggies, and herbs the same way humans do. Their digestive systems don’t even possess the enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods humans eat on a regular.

That’s not to say that cats can’t eat anything other than meat, of course. Wild cats get most of their nutrients from other animals, the content of their stomachs, and wild plants. House cats get (or at least they should get) most of their nutrients from carefully crafted cat food and cat kibble.

But, we can’t forget about the 10% of every cat’s diet that’s reserved for treats and other miscellaneous morsels. Whenever your notice your cat’s becoming a fan of something she shouldn’t eat, you can let her have an occasional treat.

Make sure it isn’t something that’s going to cause her harm and you’re good to go! Actually, this is where basil comes to play. While it shouldn’t be a regular part of your cat’s diet, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t throw it into her regular meals from time to time. Spice things up a bit, you know?

What’s good about basil?

How about everything?! Basil’s one of those herbs that can make your cat happy and healthy in a matter of minutes. When you’re wondering whether cats can eat basil, look at the number of nutrients basil brings to the table. Wonder no more, right?

Basil contains a bunch of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can improve your cat’s immune system, maintain the health of her digestive system, and ensure the proper function of her nervous system. “Basil seems to cover every base and every system. How’s that possible?”

1. Vitamins and minerals

Starting with a bang, let’s talk about the ever-so-delicious vitamins and minerals your four-legged friend can get from basil. Basil’s a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, calcium, iron, folate, and magnesium.

Cats can eat basil, so your furry friend can reap these benefits from an occasional basil leaf. We can’t forget to mention that cats should get most of their nutrients from other animals. But, getting them from plants (occasionally!) should be overlooked.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits, why don’t we! Vitamin C can boost your cat’s immune system, help the production of collagen, and ensure the health of her muscles and bones. Vitamin A ensures your cat’s healthy skin and hair (Beyonce? More like Catyonce, right?!).

And, as far as minerals go… Calcium’s responsible for the health of your cat’s teeth and bones. Iron’s in charge of treating iron deficiency anemia and maintaining the health of your cat’s red blood cells. And magnesium’s in control of your cat’s hormones (and mood swings, of course!).

2. Antioxidants

Here’s the thing, cats can get most of the basil’s vitamins and minerals from cat food and cat treats. Cats can also get most of the essential vitamins and minerals from other animals. But, they can’t really get their paws on antioxidants the same way.

That’s where basil comes to play. It is packed with antioxidants such as vitamin C and betacarotene. Antioxidants are essential for your cat’s health because they support the health of her immune system, fight against bacteria, parasites, and free radicals, and minimize damage to their cells.

3. Fiber

And we can’t forget about fiber, one of the most important things cats can get from plants. Fiber provides bulk to help food move through your cat’s digestive tract. Fiber also retains water which, in turn, helps with constipation and diarrhea. Fiber’s overall a great tool for your cat’s digestive system!

And, there’s plenty of fiber in basil. Just a couple of munches of basil can provide your cat with staggering 1,6 grams of fiber (and make her say goodbye to uncomfortable litterbox escapades!).

What’s bad about basil?

Don’t worry, this list isn’t going to be half as long as the other one! There’s pretty much nothing wrong with feeding basil to your furry friend on occasion (our friends at the ASPCA agree). But, there’s a thing or two to consider before you venture out on your third Trader Joe’s trip of the week.

First things first, make sure your cat doesn’t experience an allergic reaction after munching on a couple of basil leaves. Unfortunately, cats can be allergic to basil and can experience anything ranging from rashes, irritation, and weakness, to vomiting and diarrhea.

On the other hand, we can’t forget about the fact that basil contains a compound that can affect your cat’s blood clotting ability (which can become pretty unfortunate on the off chance she gets hurt in the meantime).

Last but not least, consuming excessive amounts of basil can cause a bunch of digestive problems, diarrhea, and vomiting. Make sure to consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet (and before treating your cat to a slice of Domino’s pizza!).

What’s the deal with basil and catnip?

“Cats can eat basil and cats can certainly eat catnip, so… Are basil and catnip one and the same!?” They’re not, but we’re here to explain where the confusion comes from. Most pet parents believe there’s some sort of a connection between basil and catnip because they’re quite similar.

Both of these herbs have a distinctive scent that’s attractive to cats. Most cats adore sniffing, nibbling on, and pawing at catnip because catnip contains something called nepetalactone (and no, we didn’t just cast a spell at your cat!).

Nepetalactone’s what’s responsible for your cat’s odd behavior whenever she finds herself in the same room with this aromatic herb. Some cats have the same reaction to basil (and considering that basil and catnip come from the same family), pet parents assume these two herbs are one and the same.

Basil does have a distinctive scent that acts as a cat attractant, but basil doesn’t contain ANY nepetalactone. These two herbs might be connected through their cat attractant properties, but basil gives rise to a pretty mild reaction.

What other herbs can cats eat?

We’re talking about A BUNCH of other herbs! But, before we start that conversation we can’t forget about the herbs your cat shouldn’t eat. Lemongrass, tarragon, oregano, and mint represent this group and your cat shouldn’t even catch a whiff of them (yes, they’re THAT toxic!).

Other than that, feel free to surprise your furry friend with a nibble of parsley, thyme, cilantro, dill, rosemary, catmint, and catnip. These herbs contain a bunch of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can do wonders for your cat’s health.

And, according to ASPCA, these herbs don’t contain anything that could affect your cat’s health in a negative manner. That’s not to say the two of you should go overboard and throw yourselves a vegetarian party. But, feel free to enjoy a couple of leaves here and there.

Can cats eat basil? What’s the conclusion?

Yes, cats can eat basil! Consuming basil from time to time offers your furry friend a bunch of nutritional and health benefits.

Basil’s packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which can boost your cat’s immune system, maintain the health of her digestive system and ensure the proper function of her nervous system.

Basil’s pretty much the GOAT among the cat-friendly herbs because of the strong scent that acts as a cat attractant. Your cat won’t enjoy munching on basil the same way she would enjoy munching on catnip (that’s for sure), but that’s not to say that she won’t reap the benefits.

Grab your cat and head to the nearest Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, or even your favorite farmers’ market. You two can stock up on basil and enjoy everything this herb has to offer.

Your pet might remind you of Ratatouille and that little furry chef that tastes the ingredients. Does she like sniffing them before you even have the chance to use them in your dish?

I know what you’re talking about. It’s like she’s my supervisor and I’m only trying my hardest to gain her approval. You’d think spices aren’t something that could potentially hold your cat’s attention.

Well, they never cease to amaze us. It can be quite shocking when you catch her licking up some of the turmerics straight out of the jar. Their intuition is usually never wrong, but we must question their choices regardless.

It’s just something cat parents do. Sometimes, even if it seems they know what they’re doing, our furry friends may get into trouble.

I don’t know about your feline, but mine is quite mischievous and likes to get her paws dirty. She’s not afraid to venture on her own and patrol the kitchen pantry every once in a while.

I guess you could say that she’s the real paw patrol then. But it’s all fun and games until their curiosity gets the best of them. We know what killed the cat, but is turmeric as dangerous as curiosity is?

Can cats eat turmeric and what if they do? Are you supposed to feed them this spice? How are they going to react? So many questions you need an answer to. Rest assured because I got you.

Can cats eat turmeric?

This special herb is known across the world for its flavor and healing abilities. Turmeric is widely used in Chinese traditional medicine and has been proven to have an array of health benefits.

Also known as Curcuma, this herb comes from the ginger family. Just like ginger, it can find its place on the dining table because of its strong aroma and flavor.

However, people have been using it to treat various illnesses and prevent certain diseases. It’s so healthy, so you must wonder can cats eat turmeric as well.

It would be a real shame if they’re denied something this advantageous. That’s why I’m more than happy to tell you that turmeric is completely safe for your pet and doesn’t present any hazard to her.

Moreover, not only is it safe, but felines can also benefit from it. Its amazing anti-inflammatory properties can help our furry friends as well!

I know we always fear human foods because they’re usually unhealthy or poisonous to felines. With turmeric, you won’t have a care in the world.

You can relax now knowing that every time your cat took a sniff and a lick of this herb, she only gained from the experience! I guess her intuition pays off after all.

But let’s see just what is it that makes turmeric so healthy for both you and your furry pal. Also, let’s figure out how and when you can use this to benefit your pet.

Can cats eat turmeric? All the properties say yes!

Now, let me tell you that there are a lot of health benefits that come from this spice. We already know some of them, but you’ll be surprised once you read the full list.

As their main caregiver, humans will take any precautionary measures and do anything it takes to keep their pets healthy. It’s only the right thing to do.

I know turmeric probably doesn’t cross your mind that often. But this spice that’s been hiding in the back of your kitchen counter just may come into the spotlight now.

You found out cats can eat turmeric, but let’s see what makes this herb so special. Is it as beneficial as ginger or does it top it?

When you hear the name of this space, all you can envision in your mind is this yellow powder. But what you can’t see but is definitely there, are all the properties this powder has.

If you have a pet that’s been sick lately and all she needs is something to boost her immune system, turmeric is the way to go. She’ll feel brand new after this herb does some of its magic.

Turmeric can aid your pet in various ways due to the abundance of health properties it has. You may find it hard to believe, but I’m going to list a few and you can see for yourself!

1. Anti-inflammatory

One of the properties that turmeric has is anti-inflammatory. After this discovery, you shouldn’t be asking yourself Can cats eat turmeric, but rather how can I feed her this amazing spice?

People oftentimes use the terms turmeric and curcumin interchangeably. Although they’re not entirely wrong, these two aren’t the same thing.

Turmeric is a spice that comes from the root of Curcuma longa, whereas curcumin is an active ingredient that gives turmeric its unique flavor and color.

Either way, both of these are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidant effects found in these may help reduce inflammation and swelling. This can tremendously help ease the pain your pet’s feeling. It comes in handy, especially if you have an older feline that might’ve developed arthritis.

We know just how hard walking or even standing up can be for those poor fellas. So, if you want to ease her pain and help her relax a bit, turmeric is the way to go. I know this is probably the last thing to come to your mind, but I guess it pays off having to google all sorts of case scenarios.

If she didn’t find that jar of spice and didn’t dig into it, you’d probably never even ask yourself can cats eat turmeric. It’s just not something that comes to your mind every day.

Either way, it’s good to know these things. You might even be able to help out your kitto with some home remedies. However, this doesn’t mean you should stop visiting your regular vet.

2. Antifungal properties

If you’ve recently rescued a cat, you might’ve noticed some traces of fungal infection. Unfortunately, it’s common in stray animals although pets aren’t entirely safe from it.

These can be a pain in the neck, or really anywhere on the body. There are lots of treatments for a fungal infection that can be provided and carried out by your vet.

However, turmeric can serve as a prevention from any type of infection. Next to anti-inflammatory properties, it’s packed with antifungal ones.

These antioxidants help treat and prevent mycosis which could eventually lead your cat into a bad state. It doesn’t necessarily imply that turmeric can treat these fungal infections for sure.

However, it’s nice to throw in some of this space every so often. You can sprinkle some of it on top of her sardines and she won’t even notice it if she’s not a big fan.

After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry! Also, you can mix that with some ginger spice that’s also heavily beneficial to felines.

So, next time when you think about can cats eat turmeric, just remember all of these amazing healing properties. Some herbs can really blow your mind with how much power they carry!

3. Antibacterial

Usually, when you hear this word you can’t help but think of all that gross bacteria that somehow crawls its way into our organisms.

Even though felines are superior to us in many aspects, they aren’t free of bacteria. It sounds discouraging and when something happens it can really drag you down. As cat parents, we always look for ways how to comfort our pets and give them the best care possible. But sometimes, it’s just a hard task to overcome.

Bacteria is everywhere around us and one slip of her immune system and she’s affected by it. Thankfully though, we have turmeric!

Next to its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, turmeric is also known for its antibacterial benefits. It doesn’t necessarily have to mean that it’s going to act like an antibiotic, but close to that.

Just like arugula, this herb does wonders for your pet. Turmeric’s antibacterial properties may help in preventing or killing the bacteria that somehow manage to invade your cat’s health.

Talk with your vet and find out what would be the best way possible to incorporate this magic ingredient into your feline’s diet.

It would be such a waste to take this herb for granted because of its many healing properties. Make the best out of it because the kitchen clearly isn’t its limit!

What makes it suitable for cats to eat turmeric?

If these previous facts weren’t enough for you to make up your mind about turmeric, then these probably will. You won’t be able to sit with your arms crossed after you find out about these benefits.

Although turmeric doesn’t look like food that has so many health advantages, it just keeps surprising you. You’d never think of it this way, but that’s why we’re here for.

If you ought to provide your pet with the best care possible, don’t worry about whether cats can eat turmeric, but rather how can you offer them some.

Next to the healing properties, this spice is packed with an array of nutrients. These are all responsible for your feline’s overall health.

1. Protein

Even though it’s a herb, you can still find traces of protein in it. I know, amazing right? It seems like turmeric just wants to impress you and keep on giving.

After all the health benefits we’ve counted so far, it doesn’t fail to amaze us. This superfood contains protein that’s required for your pet’s growth.

Now, we all know that cats are felines and they feast on meat, but why is that? Meat is packed with protein, an essential nutrient that fuels a carnivore’s body.

It helps them grow and develop accordingly. If a cat is fed a diet without protein, it’s almost guaranteed to make her fall sick quickly.

Sometimes, a feline can get into a state beyond repair if she doesn’t get a normal intake of protein. The good news is that turmeric has good amounts of it.

Some extra protein comes in handy no matter what your pet’s been munching down on. That’s probably the reason why she isn’t able to resist the urge of eating turmeric.

Perhaps it reminds her of the steak you made earlier today. Either way, if she’s happy while going at this spice, leave her be.

2. Vitamins and minerals

Turmeric, in addition to being tasty, is high in health supplements such as vitamins and minerals. It’s high in vitamins C and K, for example.

These are necessary for your cat’s immune system to operate properly and for her general development. More importantly, these two minerals serve in the formation of bones as well as the prevention of blood clots.

Vitamin K interacts with minerals like calcium. These two substances may aid in the prevention of bone illnesses such as osteoporosis and arthritis.

They’re important for the growth of muscle and nerve cells, in addition to bones. This herb also contains potassium and magnesium, in addition to calcium.

Potassium is also required for regular physiological functions, including heart and renal function. Heart disease and stroke are more likely when potassium levels are low.

Magnesium is essential for blood pressure regulation and maintaining a healthy cardiac rhythm. In cats, a shortage of this mineral can cause renal issues.

While you’re reading all of this good stuff, you’re not even thinking if cats can eat turmeric. No, now you just want to grab a whole jar of it and treat your pet.

This wouldn’t be a smart choice because it’s never healthy to overdo something even if it’s so beneficial. Keep it slow and steady and try to introduce this herb in the best possible way.

Unfortunately, your furry friend doesn’t know just how good this herb is for her. It’s possible she’ll avoid it in the beginning and be suspicious of it. It’s just how felines are.

3. Fiber

Dietary fiber is a substance found mostly in leafy vegetables like cauliflower. It is extremely useful to your pet’s digestive system.

If your pet is suffering from constipation, make sure she has enough fiber in her dish. You shouldn’t, however, get ahead of yourself and give her too much fiber.

This may have unfavorable consequences. Aside from constipation, your pet may get diarrhea as a result of too much fiber. This isn’t something any cat parent wants to deal with.

Therefore, don’t be reckless and throw in a bunch of turmeric in your pet’s bowl. Make sure you start of slow and gradually make that a habit.

It’s all about patience when it comes to these creatures. I don’t even have to begin to tell you how spoiled they can be sometimes. Well, most of the time.

Can cats eat turmeric? Let’s find out!

Not only can cats eat turmeric, but they should. Just look at all the health benefits it provides them. It’s like finding a pot at the end of the rainbow, but even better.

Gold can bring you happiness, but short-term. Turmeric, on the other hand, brings so much joy and relief. Especially when it comes to your pet as she’s the most precious being to walk the Earth.

Next to all of the above-mentioned health benefits, this spice has to offer some more. I know, unbelievable! Some of these include the following:

• Aids in mental well-being
• Helps with arthritis, or joint discomfort
• It works as a natural pain reliever.
• Heart disease assistance
• Soothes the allergies
• Acts as a cancer-preventative measure
• Helps reduce tumor size
• Assistance with IBS problems
• Aids in boosting the immune system
• Helps in the treatment of autoimmune illnesses
• Can aid in the prevention of worms
• Diarrhea treatment with a natural alternative
• Aids in preventing the accumulation of toxins in the liver and pancreas

Wrapping it up

Before you came here to learn something new, all you could think of was if your cat was going to be okay. You were worried to death just because she swallowed some turmeric.

Well, I hope you’re laughing at yourself now and chilling on the sofa with your pet. She’s happily cleaning up her whiskers and paws and you don’t have anything to be mad about.

Thankfully, cats can eat turmeric so we threw that worry off your mind. But what you didn’t even expect to find out were all the amazing healing properties it has.

I guess food and cats never cease to surprise us, one least bit. Knowing the good stuff that can be found in this herb, you should consider “accidentally” leaving the turmeric out more often.

I just happen to know what cats are like with new food. She won’t be thrilled she’s getting that yellow powder because it’s not meat, but at least she’s going to be fine and even more than that.

Your cat certainly doesn’t seem to have a problem with this herb. Most cats would scrunch up their snouts and flail around with their paws when they catch a whiff of parsley, but not your precious purrincess. You can’t help but hop online looking for answers.

“Can parsley cause harm to my cat? What happens when cats eat parsley? Can cats eat parsley with no repercussions?” According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), cats can eat parsley.

Not only that, but parsley contains a bunch of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can make your purr machine happy and healthy in the blink of an eye. You might be a bit disappointed to learn your cat seems to have a good reason to raid your herb garden, but…

There’s always a but when it comes to munching on something she shouldn’t really be munching on. Here’s everything you need to know about parsley before you and your purr baby hit the market to stack up on these fragrant herbs.

What’s parsley?

You know it’s an herb you absolutely love putting on pretty much everything you make. You know your feline friend starts meowing and begging as soon as she sees you use this herb to garnish the dish you just made. And you know this herb holds a special place in your herb garden.

Petroselinum crispum (no, this isn’t a Harry Potter spell), otherwise known as parsley, happens to be a green herb that originated somewhere in the Mediterranean. Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, and Morocco fight over who gets to claim this fragrant herb, but nobody’s certain where it came from.

One thing’s for sure, you can find parsley in most kitchens around the world. You can use it both fresh or dried. You can create contrast with its bright and bitter taste. And, most importantly, you can add a pop of green color to garnish your dish to perfection.

And don’t even get me started on the incredible nutritional and health benefits this aromatic herb brings to the table! It’s ridiculously rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s immensely beneficial for helping reduce the risk of numerous diseases including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

You can’t argue that parsley seems to be quite a handy plant to keep in your herb garden. But, you can’t help but wonder whether it carries the same benefits for your furry friend and whether your furry friend should be allowed in your herb garden. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back.

So, can cats eat parsley?

Phew, you can breathe out because cats can eat parsley! Our friends over at the ASPCA don’t have a negative thing to say about this fragrant herb, and your cat couldn’t agree more with them (even if she tried!).

But, that doesn’t mean that you and your furry friend should run to Trader Joe’s to get a bunch of fresh parsley before they run out ($1.99 for a pack, though?!). Parsley does pack a punch when it comes to nutritional and health benefits for cats. But, it doesn’t necessarily count as a part of their natural diet.

Actually, cats are obligate carnivores. They require heaps of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in their diets in order to survive. They don’t require fruits, veggies, grains (and any other plants, for that matter) the same way humans do.

Not only that, but a cat’s digestive system doesn’t even possess the enzymes necessary to break down most of the above-mentioned things. That right, your cat’s Trader Joe’s escapades might end up in a sudden rush to the litter box.

So, cats can eat parsley but that doesn’t mean that they should (at least not all the time). An occasional parsley bite, a sprinkle of parsley on her favorite Meow Mix, or even a lick of parsley water (we’ll get to that later) could do wonders for your cat’s health.

But, anything more than that could send her to your vet’s office.

What’s so good about parsley?

How about everything?! Parsley happens to be among the herbs that are rich in the most beneficial plant-based nutrients for your cat. Fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants… Whatever niche nutrient comes to your mind, there’s a good chance parsley’s got a fair amount.

1. Fiber

You’re still wondering whether cats can eat parsley? Take a quick glance at the amount of fiber this fragrant herb contains and wonder no more. That’s right, parsley’s packed with fiber (one of the most beneficial nutrients your cat can get from pesky plants!).

And, what does fiber do for your cat? Fiber provides bulk to help food move through your cat’s digestive tract. Fiber also regulates the amount of water that gets retained within your cat’s digestive tract, which in turn helps with diarrhea and constipation.

Your furry friend should get most of her fiber from carefully crafted cat food and cat treats. But, who says she shouldn’t have an occasional parsley party? Parsley can do wonders for her digestive system, who says she shouldn’t take advantage of that? “Everything in moderation”, but you get the picture.

2. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants

Who’s surprised to learn that parsley contains a bunch of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants!? Considering that cats are carnivores, they typically get most of their nutrients from other animals (and that’s how it should be).

But, wild cats also get a lot of their nutrients from other animals’ stomachs and from whatever plants they can their paws on while they’re enjoying themselves out in the sun. Your not-so-wild cat can certainly get a lot of her nutrients from parsley.

First things first, parsley contains a bunch of vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin K. These vitamins are essential for your cat’s health because they ensure muscle and bone health, strengthen the immune system, and fight against various diseases.

And we can’t forget about the minerals. Calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium are great for your cat’s nerve, muscle function, and thyroid function, as well as the maintenance of her skin and coat (yes, parsley helps keep her furry and fresh).

Last but not least, parsley’s home to antioxidants such as vitamin C and beta carotene. These antioxidants help maintain the health of your cat’s immune system which means fewer visits to the vet (we can hear your cat meowing and begging for parsley right about now!).

3. Hairball hack

And we can’t forget about those pesky hairballs! Cats develop these hairballs because they can’t get enough of their own fur (just kidding!). But, they do develop them because they spend a lot of their time licking and grooming themselves (and munching on a bunch of their own fur).

As a result, their stomachs develop hairballs which can be pretty tough to deal with. They’re annoying, tough to cough up, and they can easily become a choking hazard. But, a handful of fresh, chopped parsley every now and then can prevent your cat from developing hairballs.

What’s so bad about parsley?

Cats can eat parsley, but… Parsley doesn’t always come with rainbows and butterflies. Consuming too much parsley can leave your cat with a bunch of health problems. And your cat doesn’t want to spend her days experiencing symptoms of diarrhea or constipation because of some herb, right?!

1. Cats hate the smell of parsley

Parsley doesn’t have the same, strong fragrance that oranges or lemons do, but this herb certainly packs a punch. Your cat might be walking around your herb garden, sniffing every herb (including parsley!) without a care in the world, but… Other cats might not be able to do that.

You see, cats that aren’t used to parsley’s potent aroma get frightened and disgusted when they catch a whiff. Trust me, your cat wouldn’t show any interest in parsley if she wasn’t exposed to this aroma while she was growing up.

Don’t be surprised when she changes her mind one day and turns her head away from this fragrant herb!

2. Parsley can affect a cat’s kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract

Yes, you read that right! Your cat would have to scoff down every single parsley leaf and root from your herb garden to experience any of these repercussions. But, it’s better to stay on the safe side.

Parsley contains high levels of calcium (great for your cat’s bones, but not so great for her kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract). Consuming a bunch of calcium over a longer period of time could result in the formation of stones.

Some of the most common symptoms include weakness, lethargy and depression, vomiting and diarrhea, and different types of localized pain (abdominal pain, or even pain around the kidneys). Stones are difficult to remove (surgically or non-surgically) so you’re better off keeping those calcium levels to a minimum.

3. Parsley can cause sun damage

Consuming too much parsley doesn’t come without repercussions. Even our friends over at the ASPCA state that parsley becomes toxic when consumed excessively over a longer period of time.

And, one of the repercussions not a lot of pet parents knows about happens to be sun damage.

Parsley makes cats more sensitive to sunlight and could lead to sunburn and other skin irritations. Parsley’s especially dangerous for your Sphynx, so keep an eye out for that when you’re sprinkling this herb on her Meow Mix.

What’s the best way to feed your cat parsley?

So, cats can eat both fresh and dried parsley, right? You’d think the best way to feed parsley to your cat would be to sprinkle some on top of her regular cat food, or even to offer her a handful of parsley leaves every now and then.

But, we’re talking about the best, the GOAT, the crème de la crème way to feed your cat parsley. We’re talking about parsley water.

Parsley water (water made with parsley leaves, of course) provides your furry friend with a bunch of health benefits. From maintaining the health of her urinary tract to restoring the proper function of her digestive system (and preventing kidney stone formation), parsley water gets an A+.

And it’s pretty easy to make! Boil one cup of water and pour it over a couple of pinches of parsley leaves (fresh or dried). Once everything cools down to room temperature you can strain it, store it in a cute container, and serve it to your cat whenever she needs a pick-me-up.

Remember! Don’t go overboard with parsley water because you might end up with more than you bargained for (diarrhea, vomiting). One to two teaspoons of parsley water a couple of times a day should do the trick and keep your cat happy and healthy.

Can cats eat fresh parsley?

Yes, cats can eat fresh parsley! While most cats won’t be attracted to the fragrance fresh parsley carries, they might be attracted to the texture, the cute little pot, or the fact you’re screaming from the top of your lungs at them “Please, don’t touch my parsley!”

Either way, your furry friend can eat fresh parsley straight from the pot, washed, chopped, and sprinkled on top of their Meow Mix, or even prepared on its own. Make sure you don’t overfeed your cat parsley because she might experience adverse reactions.

Can cats eat dried parsley?

Yes, cats can eat dried parsley! Actually, dried parsley doesn’t have a strong fragrance the same way fresh parsley does (so it might even be more attractive to your cat). And, dried parsley is already cleaned and chopped.

But, there’s one thing to consider. Commercially available dried parsley typically contains seasonings, additives, and preservatives which might have a detrimental effect on your cat’s health. Make sure you go for the organic, clean, and unseasoned dried parsley and you’re good to go.

Can cats eat parsley root?

This one isn’t as simple as a yes or no, unfortunately! Too much parsley root can lead to heaps of digestive problems, diarrhea, and vomiting. Not only that, but too much parsley can even lead to symptoms of poisoning.

Even our friends over at the ASPCA shake their heads when asked the same question!

Parsley already acts as a diuretic (which means it flushes the fluids out of your cat’s body). Parsley root happens to have the same properties. What’s even worse, your cat seems more like to munch and nibble on parsley roots than struggle with chewing on parsley leaves.

A single bite of a parsley root shouldn’t cause harm to your cat. But, it’s much better to stay on the safe side and stick to a couple of teaspoons of parsley water a day.

Can cats eat other herbs?

Yes and no! On one hand, some herbs provide your cat with nutritional and health benefits she wouldn’t be able to get from anywhere else. On the other, some herbs provide your cat with health problems that could chase her to the nearest emergency animal center in a matter of seconds.

Basil, thyme, cilantro, dill, rosemary, catmint, and catnip are some of the herbs your furry friend can munch on whenever she’s in the mood for something green. These herbs have healing properties and contain heaps of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Lemongrass, mint, oregano, and tarragon are some of the herbs your furry friend should stay away from. Not only that, but on the off chance that your cat shows interest in sniffing these herbs or giving them a little lick (or even a bite), you might want to consider getting rid of them.

What’s the conclusion? Can cats eat parsley?

Yes, cats can eat parsley! This fragrant herb isn’t toxic to cats if it’s consumed in moderation. It’s packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients your cat can benefit from. It’s great for cats who have urinary, kidney, or liver problems (and for healthy cats, obviously!).

So, feel free to make some parsley water or sprinkle some chopped parsley on your four-legged friend’s Sunday munch meal. She will be over the moon!

Let’s be honest, your cat certainly wants to. Whenever she’s bored with her regular (perfectly fine and fresh) cat food, she turns to you to ask for some she clearly isn’t supposed to munch on.

Trader Joe’s canned foods, her arch enemy’s (the dog, of course) dry foods that might or might not contain salt, or even your neighbor’s kid’s homemade playdough. And don’t even get me started on your pink Himalayan salt lamp!

Your curious creature wants to munch on pretty much everything she can get her paws on. She seems particularly enchanted with the taste of salt. So, it’s no wonder you’re spending your Friday afternoon looking for answers. Argh, can cats eat salt!?

We’ve got your back, but we can’t give you a simple yes or no answer. According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, salt doesn’t fall under the category of things your cat shouldn’t put into her mouth.

But… There’s always a but when it comes to feeding your mischievous monster anything that isn’t supposed to be a part of a healthy cat’s diet. Here’s everything you need to know about the complicated relationship between your cat and your favorite pantry staple.

Why are cats so salty when eating salt?

Can cats eat salt with no repercussions? Can cat food (or other pet food, for that matter) contain salt? You swear you’ve seen a certain amount (like 1% or 2%) of salt listed as one of the ingredients on the Purina Kit and Kaboodle kibble you purchased a couple of days ago!?

So, what’s the deal with cats and salt? Why are they so salty when eating salty snacks?

Cats are obligate carnivores. They require a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in their diets in order to survive. They don’t require fruits and veggies the same way humans do. And, they certainly don’t require salt, pepper, or other seasonings.

Actually, your feline friend’s digestive system doesn’t contain the enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods you feed off of on a regular basis. She might be a direct descendant of lions, but one too many pinches of salt will send her running to her litterbox.

That doesn’t mean that your furry friend shouldn’t have human foods AT ALL. But, you should keep an eye out for the amount of salt (rock salt, sea salt, table salt, or any other type) that’s typically contained within most human foods.

Human foods with a high salt content can cause an array of adverse reactions, some of which can have serious repercussions when left untreated. We’re talking about everything from excessive thirst and urination to hypernatremia, salt toxicity (salt poisoning), and brain swelling.

But, healthy cats can (and should) have a modest amount of salt every day. Anything ranging from 20 milligrams to 40 milligrams of salt a day shouldn’t cause any harm to your furry friend unless she’s already suffering from liver, kidney, or other diseases. So, can cats eat salt with no repercussions?

What’s so bad about salt?

Trust me, next time Mrs. McFluffer decides she’s enchanted with your saltwater pool, you might want to take her away before she takes one too many licks. A little goes a long way when it comes to the ever-so-complicated relationship between cats and salt.

Salt, or sodium chloride for those of you who want to sound bad and boujee, can cause serious damage to your cat’s body. Your cat does require some sodium on a regular, but you’re better off keeping her on a low-sodium diet.

What do we mean when we say that? What makes salt bad for cats? What’s the main reason why you should keep your cat’s sodium intake to a minimum?

1. Hypernatremia

When your furry friend consumes a bunch of salty foods over a longer period of time, her sodium levels rise and her electrolytes become unbalanced. Such electrolyte imbalances can cause an array of health problems including hypernatremia and sodium (or salt) toxicity.

Hypernatremia happens when the sodium levels in your cat’s bloodstream rise over a certain level. This condition doesn’t affect healthy animals and only happens among animals that consume large amounts of salt (or added salt).

We put the emphasis on added because that’s the word that typically gets ignored when you’re throwing a quick glance at the ingredients list.

Some of the most common symptoms of hypernatremia include weakness, lethargy, incoordination, diarrhea, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. And don’t even get me started on excessive thirst and urination, high blood pressure, urinary tract disease, and heart disease.

Contact your vet as soon as you notice any of these symptoms. Plenty of fresh water, intravenous fluids (IV fluids), and supportive care should restore your cat’s sodium-water levels before you can say “Mrs. McFluffer, stop licking the salt lamp right now!”

Your cat’s health should be your number one priority. So, you might want to say no when the waiter asks whether you want some extra salt on your fries. Let’s keep that salt intake to a minimum, for both the fur baby and the fur parent.

2. Sodium (or salt) toxicity

Apart from hypernatremia, electrolyte imbalances can also lead to a condition known as sodium toxicity, salt toxicity, or even salt poisoning. One thing’s for sure, you don’t want your precious purrincess dealing with either of them.

But, for the sake of keeping your cat happy and healthy, what are the most common symptoms of sodium toxicity? Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, incoordination, excessive thirst and urination, tremors, seizures, and coma are only some of the symptoms you might want to keep an eye out for.

And that’s only the case when we’re talking about healthy cats with no underlying issues. Let’s just say that you should get Mrs. McFluffer straight to the emergency animal center if she’s already battling liver, kidney, or urinary problems.

Other than that, contact your vet if you notice any of the symptoms we mentioned a paragraph or two ago. Consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet and make sure to take a closer look at the ingredients list.

You don’t want to miss any of those “added salt” or “added preservatives” signs.

3. Digestive problems

And, while we’re on the topic of “added ingredients”, we might as well discuss one of the main problems with excessive sodium consumption in cats. Unfortunately, a lot of the time cat parents aren’t even aware they’re feeding their babies foods that are high in sodium.

Your cat isn’t going to throw a glance around the kitchen, notice a thing of sea salt and ignore everything else. But, she’s probably going to notice a bag of Doritos on the kitchen counter or a plate of mashed potatoes on the dining table.

Either way, you understand what we’re trying to say. Most foods you eat on a daily basis contain way too much salt for you to share with your furry friend. You’re better off treating her with occasional, carefully crafted cat treats to avoid digestive issues that might arise from excessive salt consumption.

Additionally, you might wonder whether you should feed salt to your cat when you’re trying to induce vomiting. While there are some cases in which using salt proved helpful, the risks outweigh the benefits.

You’re better off giving your vet a quick visit and letting him deal with whatever seems to be the problem. You can use that as a general rule of thumb. Always consult with your vet before making any decisions that could affect your cat’s health.

Can cats eat table salt?

It’s safe to say that cats shouldn’t consume too much salt on a daily basis. But, you might be wondering whether it matters what type of salt they consume. Can cats eat table salt? What makes table salt different from other types of salt?

First things first, table salt isn’t something you and your cat aren’t familiar with. It’s the granulated white salt that’s typically found in saltshakers. It’s mined from underground salt deposits and devoid of other minerals.

And, it’s enriched with something called iodine (and no, you don’t have to remember the terminology).

Most importantly, table salt is the most common type of salt among humans. This means that when cat parents wonder whether cats can eat salt they’re typically referring to this type of salt.

And, to answer their question, cats can have a small amount of table salt without repercussions. Anything more than that might leave your furry friend with a bunch of digestive issues (or even symptoms of hypernatremia and sodium toxicity).

Table salt shouldn’t be a regular part of your cat’s diet but there’s no reason to panic on the off chance she licks a pinch from the kitchen counter.

What about rock salt?

Rock salt, as the name suggests, comes from rocks rather than minerals. Unlike table salt, it’s taken directly from the ground in order to retain its distinguishable crystalline form. So, can cats eat rock salt?

Here’s the thing, rock salt doesn’t seem to be recommended for human consumption, either. While you won’t get sick from adding a pinch of rock salt into your grandma’s pasta recipe, this particular type of salt typically contains minerals and impurities as it’s often left untreated.

What does that mean for you and your cat? First things first, if you’re planning on sharing your grandma’s pasta recipe with your feline friend, you might want to opt for purified rock salt. And, you also might want to add not more than a pinch (even if the recipe calls for more).

Everything we mentioned when we were talking about the negative effects of excessive amounts of salt on your cat applies to rock salt, as well. While a pinch or two shouldn’t cause adverse reactions, it’s better to keep those rock salt snacks to a minimum.

Can cats eat sea salt?

Who doesn’t love to sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt over their grilled cheese or tomato bruschetta!? Let’s be honest, sea salt holds a special place in our hearts, but should it hold a special place in your cat’s heart? Could sea salt be any different from other types of salt?

Sea salt gets evaporated from oceans, seas, and other saltwater sources. Actually, it’s pretty similar to rock salt in the way that it retains a lot of the other minerals. It’s less processed and purified, and it shouldn’t be consumed by your cat on a regular.

A little bit of sea salt every now and then shouldn’t cause any adverse reactions, but… It’s better to avoid feeding your cat anything that contains sea salt (or any other type of salt) because she already gets the necessary amount from her regular cat food.

Don’t forget, don’t make any significant changes to your cat’s diet without consulting with your vet beforehand. Sea salt might not be the worst thing your feline friend can munch on, but it’s better to stay on the safe side and avoid salty snacks.

And what about pepper and other seasonings?

To everyone’s demise, it’s pretty clear you shouldn’t feed too much salt to your cat. Nobody wants her to spend the rest of the afternoon in her litterbox, of course. But, what’s the deal with other seasonings? Can cats eat black pepper? Can cats eat cayenne pepper?

Unfortunately, cats and seasonings don’t have a healthy relationship. Sure, your cat might perk her ears up and scrunch up her snout when she catches a whiff of whatever’s on the stove. But, that doesn’t mean that she should have a taste.

Seasonings such as salt, black pepper, or cayenne pepper shouldn’t cause harm to your feline. They aren’t considered particularly toxic, but they also aren’t recommended for feline consumption. She shouldn’t eat them regularly, but they’re safe from time to time.

On the other hand, seasoning such as onion powder and garlic powder might rush her to the emergency animal center. Onion powder and garlic powder are toxic to cats, and you shouldn’t let your cat consume them under any circumstances.

Keep up the good work with carefully crafted cat food and cat treats. Add an occasional unhealthy snack that isn’t going to send your cat running to her litterbox. And, of course, always keep an eye out for those hidden harmful ingredients listed on the back.

So, can cats eat salt?

Yes and no! As much as we would love to give you a black or white answer, that simply isn’t possible when we’re talking about this particular topic.

Your furry friend requires a certain amount of salt in her system to keep her happy and healthy. But, you should always make sure you don’t go overboard. Whether the two of you are fans of table salt, rock salt, or even sea salt, keep its consumption to a minimum.

You’re not the only one! Pet parents around the world spend hours and hours of their day looking up different foods and checking whether they’re likely to send their precious pets running to the litter box. “Can cats eat cinnamon rolls? And what about cinnamon toast crunch?”

Well, you came to the right place. Whether your furry friend licked the cinnamon you spilled while you were making your breakfast oats or she munched on a cinnamon stick while you weren’t looking, we’re here to help you answer any question you might have.

Can cats eat cinnamon? Can cinnamon compounds harm your cat? According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), cinnamon isn’t toxic to cats and shouldn’t cause any adverse reactions when consumed moderately.

But, before you and your furry friend put your celebratory hats on… There are a couple of things you should know. Cinnamon isn’t toxic to cats. But, your cat shouldn’t consume large amounts of cinnamon (or even small amounts of cinnamon) for numerous reasons. Let’s start from the beginning!

So, can cats eat cinnamon?

Cats can eat cinnamon, but… There’s always a but when it comes to feeding your cat anything that isn’t supposed to be a regular part of her diet. Cats are carnivores which means they require meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in their diet.

Your cat’s digestive system isn’t equipped to break down and process a lot of the foods that are typically labeled as “human foods.” You might enjoy an occasional cinnamon roll. But, she might have a hard time dealing with cinnamon, sugar, and other ingredients that aren’t a natural part of her diet.

So, what are we referring to when we’re talking about cinnamon? Cinnamon is pretty much the bark of the cinnamon tree that comes from the Cinnamomum family. Cinnamon sticks, cinnamon essential oils, cinnamon powder, cinnamon diffusers, and sprays are only some of the ways in which humans typically use this succulent spice.

And let me tell you, cinnamon is popular among humans for a reason! It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s known to have anti-inflammatory properties, reduce blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels, and help with a bunch of other health problems… For humans.

To your four-legged friend’s disappointment, cinnamon doesn’t have the same effect on cats. Quite on the contrary, cinnamon contains something known as coumarin which can lead to allergic reactions and cinnamon toxicities.

You might want to consult with your vet before adding cinnamon to your cat’s diet. And before you get a green light from your vet, take a look at a couple of things that make cinnamon a pretty cumbersome cat treat.

What makes cinnamon bad for cats?

A better question would be “what doesn’t make cinnamon bad for cats!?” This succulent spice seems to be one of the worst things your cat can get in contact with. Not only can it lead to various digestive issues, but it can also result in an allergic reaction or cinnamon poisoning.

You might want to keep an eye out for some of the most common signs and symptoms of these caddish conditions. Trust me, you’re better off staying on the safe side of things.

1. Cinnamon toxicity

Regardless of the type of cinnamon, consuming large amounts can leave your cat with serious symptoms of cinnamon toxicity.

You might be confused as to why we mentioned that “cinnamon isn’t toxic to cats” when it can lead to such adverse reactions. Let’s say your furry friend decides to sneak a nibble of your cinnamon roll. There’s pretty much no reason to believe such a small amount would cause a problem.

But, when she decides to scoff down every single cinnamon rolls she finds in the kitchen (and ignore her perfectly plated cat food), she’s bound to experience some serious repercussions. She can consume less than a teaspoon of powdered cinnamon before she starts feeling the side effects.

As mentioned in one of the previous paragraphs, cinnamon contains something called coumarin. Your cat’s digestive system doesn’t contain the necessary enzymes to digest coumarin. So, consuming cinnamon results in liver damage, liver disease, and even liver failure.

Obviously, there are ways in which you can recognize cinnamon toxicity before it turns into something more serious. Look for some of the following symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Still wondering “can cats eat cinnamon?” This might not be the answer you’ve been hoping for, but it’s the answer that might help save your furry friend’s life.

2. Cinnamon allergies

Believe it or not, cinnamon allergies can be pretty common in the feline world.

Your feline friend can get in contact with this succulent spice when she’s roaming around the kitchen, sniffing everything that comes her way, or even munching and nibbling on anything she can find. Danger follows her everywhere she goes!

That’s why it’s incredibly important to consult with your vet before you make any significant changes in her diet (or even in her environment). He should be able to tell you whether your feline friend has any allergies you should be aware of.

And, if she does… You might want to rethink putting that spice rack within the reach of her pesky paws. Some of the most common symptoms of cinnamon allergies are rashes and irritations, sneezing, difficulty breathing, change in heart rate, and change in blood pressure.

It goes without saying that you should contact your vet as soon as you notice any of these symptoms. Allergic reactions in cats don’t have a history of causing any lasting harm. But, they can result in severe organ damage and organ failure when they aren’t addressed in time.

What are the most common causes of cinnamon toxicity and cinnamon allergy?

Your feline friend can pretty much get in trouble with cinnamon everywhere she goes! Whether she ingests it, inhales it, or even gets it on her fur, she’s at risk of experiencing symptoms of cinnamon toxicity or cinnamon allergies.

You can’t really find high concentrations of coumarin in powdered cinnamon (which happens to be the most popular type among humans). But, you never know what kind of shenanigans your furry friend might be up to this time. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your cat’s health.

So, if you notice any of the following symptoms contact your vet and follow his advice to a tee. He should be able to provide your cat with proper medication and supportive care. She should be as good as new as soon as she gets the spice out of her system.

1. When she ingests cinnamon

This is pretty much the most common cause of cinnamon toxicity. Let’s be honest, cinnamon isn’t the only spice you have lying around your kitchen.

While there’s nothing wrong with that, you might be one of those pet owners that forgot to babyproof (or better said, catproof) their kitchen. What’s stopping your furbaby from storming into the room and scoffing down everything she can get her paws on?

So, it doesn’t come as a surprise that most cats experience symptoms of cinnamon toxicity after ingesting excessive amounts of cinnamon. Some of the symptoms we’re talking bout are diarrhea, vomiting, coughing, breathlessness, and liver failure (due to a lack of necessary liver enzymes).

Needless to say, next time you’re asking yourself “can cats have cinnamon” try to remember what happens when they do have cinnamon. There’s no reason why you should ever feed your cat anything that contains cinnamon knowing the repercussions she might face.

2. When she inhales cinnamon

You might be thinking to yourself “how can cats even inhale cinnamon when they pretty much hate the smell”, and you’re making a pretty good point. Believe it or not, the smell of cinnamon isn’t something your feline friend likes to smell when she wakes up in the morning.

Cat haters (otherwise known as people who don’t like it when cats mark their territory on the new sofa or break the vase that was a present from their late grandma) tend to put this succulent spice into a spray bottle and use it as a cat repellent.

Pepper, curry, and cinnamon have a strong aroma that’s intense enough to ward off cats. With that in mind, it’s pretty uncommon for most cats to experience signs of cinnamon toxicity after they inhale a bunch of cinnamon. Stranger things have happened, so…

Some of the most common symptoms to keep an eye out for when your cat accidentally inhales some cinnamon are sneezing, wheezing, coughing, breathlessness, and other respiratory problems. You already know the drill, if you notice any of them contact your vet immediately.

3. When she gets cinnamon on her skin or fur

Last but not least, your furry friend can also experience signs of cinnamon toxicity if she gets some cinnamon on her skin or fur. Maybe she’s got sensitive skin, she’s already experienced an allergic reaction to cinnamon, or she’s gotten cinnamon essential oil on her skin.

Either way, you might notice signs of itching, irritations, and redness, as well as obsessive pawing and scratching. You might be surprised to learn that cinnamon can have such an effect on your cat’s skin. But, don’t forget that certain types of cinnamon do contain high levels of coumarin.

Cinnamon essential oil happens to be the worst type of cinnamon you can keep within your cat’s reach. This essential oil couldn’t be more concentrated and certainly couldn’t be more dangerous to your cat’s health. She’s much better off playing with thyme!

Can cats eat cinnamon rolls?

You might have already guessed it, but… Cats can’t eat cinnamon rolls. Not only do these tasty treats contain cinnamon which isn’t that great for your cat, but they also contain sugar, flour, yeast, and even raisins.

None of those ingredients belong to your cat’s regular diet. They aren’t necessarily toxic (except for raisins). But, they are pretty harmful in terms of leading to numerous digestive issues such as upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Consuming cinnamon rolls on a regular can leave your feline friend with a bunch of gastrointestinal problems, weight gain, obesity, and even feline diabetes.

You might think it’s adorable how she struggles to chew through all that dough. But, her digestive system doesn’t recognize cinnamon rolls as something she should be eating. Trust me, there are better ways to deal with her “mommy please” look.

Actually, cats can’t even taste sweet things! Your cat is only interested in cinnamon rolls because she sees you devour them in two bites. She’s a curious creature, but that doesn’t mean that you should share everything you eat with her.

Can cats eat cinnamon toast crunch?

Cinnamon toast crunch is one of the most popular brands of breakfast cereal in the world. You have a couple of boxes in every corner of your kitchen and you eat them every single morning… All the while your furry friend meows and begs you to let her have a taste.

Unfortunately, you have to find a way to resist her meows of desperation because cats can’t eat cinnamon toast crunch. These mouth-watering morsels contain a bunch of cinnamon (hence the name), but they also contain sugar, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives.

Trust me, you don’t want any of those things in your cat’s tummy. Sugar might not be toxic to cats unless it’s consumed in excessive amounts, but some artificial sweeteners and preservatives might cause some serious damage to your cat’s health.

And don’t even get me started on milk… Cats are lactose intolerant and their digestive system isn’t equipped to break down the lactose in milk. What does that mean for your cat? Well, if she scoffs down your bowl of cereal she’s bound to experience stomach aches, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Let’s just say that “sharing isn’t always caring.” Keep that bowl of cinnamon toast crunch to yourself and feed your furry friend with something a bit more fitting.

Cats can eat cinnamon, but…

That doesn’t mean they should. Cinnamon doesn’t come without a bunch of repercussions, “proceed with caution” warnings, and a long list of terms and conditions. There’s pretty much no reason why you should feed cinnamon to your cat.

She might be a big fan of cinnamon rolls and cinnamon toast crunch. But, there are better alternatives available on the market that won’t send her running to the litter box. And won’t cause adverse reactions or lasting damage to her health. Do with that what you will!

Pizza sauce, pasta sauce… You can’t even imagine making Italian-inspired dishes without your favorite flavorsome herb. Oregano has become such a staple in your kitchen. You’re no longer surprised you keep finding oregano leaves everywhere you turn.

You can’t say you haven’t noticed your curious creature sniffing around your herb garden on more than one occasion, but… You haven’t given it much thought. Why would she munch on herbs when she’s got perfectly good cat food waiting for her in her bowl?

So, can cats eat oregano? You might be surprised to find out that the answer to your question is NO. Oregano falls under the category of culinary herbs that are unsafe for feline consumption.

According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), consuming oregano in any form might leave your little muncher with dangerous digestive issues and other health problems. Shocked to read that? Let’s get into it!

What is oregano?

Oregano is the common term we use to refer to an aromatic herb that’s typically made out of fresh or dried leaves of the plant, Origanum vulgare, which is Greek for “joy of the mountains.”

Other than being cultivated for culinary purposes, oregano can be found growing wild on Mediterranian mountainsides, which is why this unusual name is perfectly suitable. Oregano is typically used to add flavor, color, and texture to mouth-watering sauces and numerous Mediterranean dishes.

Dried oregano is more popular than fresh because it has a subtler taste. Fresh oregano has an incredibly strong aroma, and it can be used straight from your herb garden.

Fresh oregano is a great antibacterial agent for fighting infections. It contains heaps of antioxidants that help ward off bacteria and viruses. And, it’s an awesome source of vitamin K, manganese, iron, vitamin E, and calcium.

Oregano brings so much joy to humans, but your four-legged friend might not agree. Let’s find out why cats cannot eat oregano, shall we?

Can cats eat oregano?

There are so many incredibly beneficial herbs that are completely safe for feline consumption, but sadly, oregano isn’t one of them. Unfortunately, all forms of oregano are toxic to cats, regardless of whether it’s used orally or topically.

Pet parents shouldn’t even have an oregano plant in their herb garden! This aromatic herb might bring numerous health benefits to you, but is detrimental to your furry friend.

Unfortunately, essential oils found within the oregano plant make oregano toxic to cats. They contain naturally occurring organic chemicals called phenols and terpenoids.

Cats don’t have the same digestive system as humans do. So, your cat’s digestive tract doesn’t contain the enzymes that are necessary to break down and eliminate these chemicals.

More specifically, your cat’s liver lacks the glucuronyl transferase enzymes that are responsible for eliminating toxic substances from your cat’s body. Without the ability to digest phenols and terpenoids, they build up in her body, causing numerous health issues.

It’s safe to say that you should avoid bringing oregano into your household at all costs! Or at the very least, cat parents should make sure to hide any oregano plants, oregano oils, or oregano seasonings out of their furchild’s reach.

There are so many things that could go wrong if your four-legged friend gets into your herb garden (or even your secret oregano stash) and decides to have a feast. It’s better to stay on the safe side, and here’s why.

What will happen if my cat eats oregano?

Let’s say your feline friend accidentally eats a bite of something that might have a pinch of oregano in it. Your first instinct might be to rush to your computer and google “Can cats eat oregano?” While that’s a completely justified reaction, there’s no need for panic.

A small amount of oregano shouldn’t cause any serious damage to your cat. She might experience some digestive upset with symptoms such as excessive thirst, nausea, and diarrhea. Once she gets that tiny amount of oregano out of her system, she should be fine.

The problem arises when pet owners aren’t aware of the dangers this aromatic herb brings to the table. Because oregano is used medicinally in a lot of home remedies, they might assume it’s completely safe to use oregano oil on their cat.

Oregano oil is incredibly concentrated and packed with phenols and terpenoids. Consuming it on a daily basis may lead to oregano poisoning, severe gastrointestinal upset, and permanent liver damage.

The most common symptoms of oregano poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shallow breathing, difficulty walking, oral irritation, loss of appetite, and other signs of anorexia.

Large amounts of oregano oil might also lead to cardiovascular issues, as well as elevated blood pressure and heart rate. And in addition, if oregano oil gets on your cat’s skin and fur, she may experience incredibly uncomfortable skin irritations.

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your vet immediately. It’s incredibly important that you disclose any home treatments you might have performed on your cat. This will speed up the diagnostic process and get your cat the medical attention she needs.

Can cats eat dried oregano?

It’s safe to say that fresh oregano and oregano oil shouldn’t be anywhere near your feline friend. If you have an oregano plant, make sure your cat can’t reach it. And, if you have oregano oil, you shouldn’t use it on your cat under any circumstances.

But, what about dried oregano? Is dried oregano safe for cats? Let’s just say that there’s no need to panic if you catch your cat munching on some dried oregano behind closed kitchen cabinet doors.

Dried oregano is much less concentrated in phenols and terpenoids. It’s far less likely to cause any serious damage to your cat’s health. But, don’t exclude the possibility of upset stomach, diarrhea, or even vomiting.

Some cats are more sensitive than others, so your feline friend might have a hard time digesting dried oregano. But, once this aromatic herb gets out of her system, she should be as good as new.

It’s important to mention that you should contact your vet in case your cat experiences a severe reaction to dried oregano.

But in short, to answer your question: Cats can’t eat dried oregano. This aromatic herb is toxic to cats regardless of its form. Dried oregano might not be as dangerous as fresh oregano, but it’s better to stay on the safe side when it comes to your furkid.

What about oregano oil?

Cats can’t eat oregano oil. As mentioned before, oregano oil contains high levels of phenols and terpenoids which are highly toxic to cats. They might lead to oregano poisoning, severe gastrointestinal upset, and even permanent liver damage.

Oregano essential oil is the worst and most hazardous form of oregano in the feline world. Under no circumstances should it be included in your cat’s diet. And, it goes without saying that you certainly shouldn’t use it on your cat’s skin or fur as a medical treatment (the way you would typically use it on yourself).

Believe it or not, most essential oils are incredibly damaging to your feline friend. Cinnamon, thyme, oregano, citrus oils, pine oils, lavender, bergamot, tea tree, eucalyptus… If you have any of these oils in your household, keep them out of your cat’s reach.

Diffused essential oils have become all the rage in the past couple of years. Unfortunately, your four-legged friend might experience serious health issues if she inhales some of those oregano oil droplets.

Not only are these oregano essential oil droplets dangerous themselves, but if your cat accidentally inhales any of them, she will be at risk of developing foreign body pneumonia. You might want to keep an eye on symptoms such as watery nose and eyes, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.

If you notice any of these, it’s time to get in touch with your vet immediately. And stop diffusing essential oils around your feline friend!

What other herbs should your cat avoid?

You got the answer to your “Can cats eat oregano?” question, but you’re still wondering about other herbs. Since oregano is so dangerous to your four-legged friend, does that mean you should uproot your entire herb garden to keep her out of harm’s way?

Well, maybe? Here’s the thing: There are plenty of herbs and plants that are completely safe for feline consumption. You should familiarize yourself with them because your feline friend might be interested in giving them a nibble or two.

On the other hand, there are a number of herbs and plants that could cause some serious damage to your cat’s health. Mint, lemongrass, chamomile, chives, and tarragon are only some that you want to avoid.

Mint is toxic to cats, according to the ASPCA. All parts of mint (leaves, flowers, and stems) contain essential oils which can lead to mint poisoning. This is quite unfortunate because cats absolutely love mint as it reminds them of their favorite herb, catnip.

Lemongrass, you guessed it, also contains essential oils which might harm your furry friend in the long run. Excessive amounts of lemongrass might lead to lemongrass poisoning, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, swollen abdomen, and excessive urination.

Chamomile might not be as harmful as some other herbs on this list, but it contains a variety of harmful substances such as tannic acid, anthemic acid, chamazulene, bisabolol, and volatile oil. It can cause some serious damage if consumed excessively over a longer period of time.

Chives (just like all other onion-family foods) are toxic to cats because they contain disulfides and thiosulphates. These compounds can cause your cat’s red blood cells to rupture, which can lead to anemia.

What herbs are safe for your cat?

If you’re looking to add some variety to your cat’s diet, you might want to look into herbs that have been labeled safe for feline consumption by the ASPCA. Catnip, cilantro, rosemary, thyme, basil, and dill… Feel free to let your furry friend bask in the benefits of these aromatics.

Catnip has to be the most popular herb in the feline world. Put this plant in every room of your house because it comes with numerous nutritional and health benefits. It reduces stress, stomach pain, and bloating. It’s also a great tool against feline boredom!

Cilantro is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help your cat’s coat, immune system, bones, joints, and muscles. This herb is a great ally in preventing the onset of feline cancer.

Thyme can improve your cat’s digestive health. Not only does it suppress fungal and bacterial growth, but it can also help your cat get rid of those pesky hairballs.

As you can see, there are so many better alternative herbs you can feed to your cat instead of oregano!

Can cats eat oregano? Final verdict!

No, cats can’t eat oregano. According to the ASPCA, this aromatic herb isn’t considered safe for feline consumption. Too much oregano might leave your cat with gastrointestinal upset, oregano poisoning, and even permanent liver damage.

It’s better to stay on the safe side when it comes to your four-legged friend, so rather put those oregano plant pots away for now. Good luck!

You shouldn’t be worried if your mischievous monster starts showing a sudden interest in this perennial evergreen. Not only are cats incredibly curious creatures, but they also get bored with regular cat food. And who could blame them!? But…

There’s always a but when it comes to feeding your feline friend anything that shouldn’t be a regular part of her diet. Unfortunately, herbs and greens can be incredibly damaging to your cat’s digestive system if she stumbles upon the toxic ones.

So, can cats eat thyme? According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) thyme isn’t on the list of toxic herbs! If your cat happens to nibble on this fragrant herb she shouldn’t experience any adverse reactions.

Does that mean you should go ahead and throw a thyme tea party for your precious purrincess? Unfortunately no. While thyme isn’t harmful to cats, there are a couple of things you should consider before introducing it to your cat’s diet.

Time for thyme

Thyme might not be as popular as catnip in the feline world, but that shouldn’t stop you from exploring the amazing nutritional and health benefits it brings to the table. So, what exactly is this aromatic leafy green?

Thyme is a part of the mint family Lamiaceae. It’s best known for its culinary and medicinal use. It’s a close relative to oregano, which is considered unsafe according to the ASPCA. Things aren’t looking up when it comes to your ‘‘Can cats eat thyme?’’ question!

While there are different types of thyme, Thymus Vulgaris is the one that’s most commonly cultivated and used among humans. It’s typically used to add color and flavor to different foods. And that’s not even the most exciting part about this herb.

Thyme contains a lot of antioxidants that can calm the nervous system. It can help improve the immune system, fight against bacterial infections, reduce symptoms of throat irritations and coughing, and act as a mood booster… For humans.

But, is thyme safe for cats? Not only does the ASPCA recognize thyme as non-toxic to cats, but the FDA (Food and Drug Authority) also categorizes it as generally safe for feline consumption. Can you hear your curious creature meow with excitement?!

But, wait a minute… She might be meowing because she’s thinking about a completely different type of thyme! Cat thyme, or Teucrium Marum, is a shrubby, fragrant plant similar to regular thyme. But, they’re not the same thing!

Unlike regular thyme, it’s quite unpleasant in odor and bitter in taste. While it isn’t a favorite among humans, cat thyme can be an excellent substitute for catnip. Feel free to give your cat a little taste and see how she reacts!

So, can cats eat thyme?

It’s quite clear that thyme isn’t your regular herb garden plant. It has a history of culinary, medicinal, and ornamental use. It’s also incredibly beneficial to humans because it contains a bunch of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. But, is it beneficial to cats?

Absolutely! Your feline friend might be a carnivore, but that doesn’t mean she can’t reap some benefits from an occasional thyme treat. Vitamins A and C, minerals like calcium and iron, and active components like thymol are only some of them.

How can cats eat thyme safely? There are many ways in which you could introduce thyme into your cat’s diet. If you get a green light from your vet, you can always garnish her food with a couple of fresh leaves or even sprinkle it with some dry, powdered ones.

1. Thymol

Three of the most important active components of thyme are thymol, carvacrol, and eugenol. Believe it or not, veterinary medicine typically uses thymol because of its anthelmintic and antibacterial properties. It’s safe to say that cats can and should eat thyme!

So, thymol makes thyme incredibly beneficial to your precious purrincess. It can help her get rid of internal and external parasites, clean her digestive tract, improve her digestive health, and suppress bacterial and fungal growth.

Here’s the thing. You should always consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet. That being said, an occasional thyme treat can help your cat get rid of worms and other parasites that might have found their way into her digestive tract.

Not only that, but it can also ensure the overall health of your cat’s digestive system. While you shouldn’t add thyme to your cat’s regular diet, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t let her go explore your herb garden every now and then.

Lastly, cats spend a huge chunk of their day grooming themselves. Chances are your precious purrincess accidentally swallows a bunch of her own fur which results in those pesky hairballs. Luckily for her, thyme and thymol can save the day!

2. Vitamins A and C

Cats are carnivores; which means they get most of their nutrients from other animals. They require a diet packed with meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced vitamins and minerals in order to survive. Does that mean your cat shouldn’t consume anything other than that?

Absolutely not. While it’s incredibly important for your cat to get most of its nutrients from other animals, there’s no reason why she shouldn’t get some of her daily vitamins and minerals from other sources. And since cats can eat thyme, this herb is an excellent source of vitamins A and C!

Vitamin A is an essential vitamin for your feline friend. This means she needs it to maintain proper function and optimal health. Vitamin A supports your cat’s immune system and helps protect her body against many dangerous diseases.

Vitamin C is synthesized in your cat’s liver. So, she doesn’t need vitamin C from other sources unless her liver isn’t doing a good job. Either way, this vitamin is incredibly important as it supports tissue growth and maintenance, boosts immunity, and triggers oxidative stress relief.

3. Minerals

Thyme is a great source of potassium, iron, calcium, manganese, magnesium, and selenium. If your precious purrincess was in the wild, she would be able to get most of these minerals from the bones, skin, and insides of her prey.

Since she’s in your bed taking her twelfth nap of the day, you’re the only one who’s responsible for making sure she gets her daily dose of minerals. Luckily for you, cats can eat thyme. An occasional thyme treat should do the trick!

Firstly, potassium is an essential electrolyte because it ensures the normal function of your cat’s muscles and nerves. Low potassium levels are incredibly dangerous because they might lead to something called hypokalemia.

Symptoms include muscle weakness, difficulty getting up and walking, loss of appetite, and constipation. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your vet and schedule an appointment.

Secondly, iron can help boost your cat’s red blood cells. If you notice your cat has been eating soil, rocks, litter, or having other unusual food cravings; she might be experiencing iron deficiency (or even anemia).

And lastly, thyme contains a lot of calcium. Calcium is an essential electrolyte just like potassium. The AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) says that adult cats need 0.6% of their total diet to be calcium which makes thyme a great choice for your feline friend!

4. Dietary fiber

You might think your curious creature doesn’t require any fiber in her diet because she’s a carnivore, but you’d be wrong. Fiber-packed plants like thyme can help your cat with a variety of issues such as diarrhea, constipation, and diabetes.

It’s important to be careful when introducing fiber-packed plants (or fruits and veggies) to your cat’s diet. A little goes a long way! An occasional thyme treat should be able to provide your cat with a generous amount of fiber (14 grams per serving size).

Here’s the catch – if your cat consumes too much fiber in her diet she might experience serious digestive issues with symptoms such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting. You shouldn’t feed your cat with more than a couple of thyme leaves every now and then.

Cats can eat thyme, but…

It’s safe to say we answered your “Can cats eat thyme?” question to a tee, but there are a couple of things you need to take into consideration before adding this fragrant herb to your cat’s food bowl. So, let’s dive in!

Firstly, you shouldn’t let your cat eat too much of anything that isn’t supposed to be a regular part of her diet. Cats are carnivores which means they require meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced vitamins and minerals in order to survive. And you should stick to that as a general rule of thumb!

Herbs like thyme might make for a healthy treat, but they should only comprise around 10% of your cat’s daily food intake. If your mischievous monster finds her way into your herb garden she might experience digestive issues such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting because she lacks the necessary digestive enzymes.

Secondly, you shouldn’t let your cat eat thyme oil. While thyme isn’t toxic to cats, we can’t say the same thing about thyme oil. Most essential oils contain phenols which are incredibly dangerous for your feline friend.

If your mischievous monster licks or sniffs thyme oil she might develop irritating rashes and inflammation, allergic reactions, and seizures. Unfortunately, these are quite tame reactions in comparison with what she might develop if she is exposed to thyme oil over a longer period of time.

Lastly, you shouldn’t let your cat eat thyme that was sprayed with pesticides or herbicides as it might lead to poisoning. If you can’t find any organically grown thyme in your local market, you should try growing it yourself in your herb garden.

What other herbs are safe for cats?

You should consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet. There are so many herbs your cat might enjoy munching on in her free time, and you’re responsible for making sure she isn’t at risk of any allergic and adverse reactions.

With that disclaimer out of the way… Here’s a list of herbs and non-toxic plants you can use to add some variety to your cat’s regular diet:

1. valerian,

2. dandelion,

3. echinacea,

4. cilantro,

5. catnip.

Valerian is not only safe for cats but it’s also packed with nutritional and health benefits. If you have a chubby cat that doesn’t want to move from her favorite spot in the house, valerian might be the thing for you because it acts as a stimulant.

Dandelion is an excellent addition to your herb garden. Not only does it look adorable, but it helps boost your cat’s immune system, promote healthy digestion and ensure liver detoxification.

Echinacea or the purple coneflower is also safe for cats! If your feline friend is suffering from frequent respiratory infections you might want to add a couple of echinacea leaves to her food bowl.

Cilantro is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can boost your cat’s immune system, regulate her digestive system, and slow down the onset of serious diseases such as feline cancer.

Catnip doesn’t even need additional explanations! It’s the most loved plant in the feline world as it contains an essential oil called nepetalactone that drives them crazy (in the best way possible!).

Who said you couldn’t add color, flavor, and texture to your picky eater’s regular diet? Cats can be such little divas when it comes to their food, and this is a great way to prevent them from throwing a hissy fit!

What herbs are not safe for cats?

Cats can eat thyme, but… You shouldn’t let your cat go ham in your herb garden. There are many herbs and plants that aren’t recommended for feline consumption because they contain compounds that might prove toxic if consumed in excessive amounts.

Here’s a list of some of the most dangerous herbs and plants you’ll want to keep away from your precious purrincess:

1. onion,

2. garlic,

3. chives,

4. lemongrass,

5. chamomile,

6. mint.

Onion, garlic, and chives belong to the Allium family. Every member of this family contains compounds known as disulfides and thiosulphates, which are incredibly toxic to cats.

Firstly, they can cause oxidative damage to the red blood cells which can result in conditions like hemolytic anemia, Heinz body anemia, and methemoglobinemia. You might notice symptoms such as lethargy, pale gums, increased heart rate, and overall weakness.

Secondly, they can cause serious gastrointestinal diseases because your cat’s digestive system doesn’t contain the enzymes necessary to break them down. You might notice symptoms such as nausea, drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Lemongrass isn’t considered toxic to cats by the ASPCA, but it can be incredibly harmful if consumed in excessive amounts. And if that isn’t enough, lemongrass essential oil can be fatal! Unfortunately, your cat lacks a liver enzyme that helps to break down most essential oils.

Chamomile can also be incredibly harmful if consumed in excessive amounts. It contains a variety of potentially harmful substances such as tannic acid, anthemic acid, and volatile oil.

Mint leaves, flowers, and stems are unsafe for cats. If your cat nibbles on mint she might experience digestive issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. It’s safe to say your precious purrincess should stay away from anything that isn’t labeled safe by the ASPCA!

Final thoughts!

Cats can eat thyme! Not only is this perennial evergreen considered safe by the ASPCA, but it also contains a bunch of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Your feline friend doesn’t need thyme in her regular diet, but an occasional treat shouldn’t cause any adverse reactions. Good luck!