Carrageenan

Caution

Verdict

Caution — a thickener, not a classic poison. Evidence of harm in cats is limited and debated.

Also called: irish moss extract
Source: ASPCA · Verified 2026-08-13

Verdict

Carrageenan is extracted from red seaweed and used to gel wet food. Some owners avoid it because of GI-inflammation debates in other species. It is not in the same category as onions or antifreeze. If a cat has chronic vomiting, a diet trial without it is a conversation with a vet, not an emergency.

Symptoms to watch for

  • possible soft stool in sensitive cats

What to do

No emergency. Choose another food if your vet suggests a diet trial.