Nutmeg
Verdict
Never — myristicin causes neurological symptoms.
If your cat ate this
Cats hide symptoms — don't wait and see. Even small amounts of certain substances can be fatal to a cat. Act fast.
- 1. Call your veterinarian immediately
- 2. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
- 3. Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (consultation fee applies)
A consultation fee may apply for poison control hotlines.
Verdict
Nutmeg contains myristicin, a toxic compound that causes hallucinations, elevated heart rate, disorientation, and seizures in cats. It is found in pumpkin pie spice, eggnog, and many baked goods. Even small amounts can cause alarming symptoms; large amounts can be fatal. Cats are more sensitive to myristicin than dogs due to their smaller size and different metabolism.
Symptoms to watch for
- • hallucinations (disoriented, fearful behavior)
- • elevated heart rate
- • seizures
- • dry mouth
- • abdominal pain
- • possibly death
What to do
Contact your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not feed any spiced or seasoned human food to cats.
📞 US ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435