Can cats eat cinnamon?
ASPCA lists the cinnamon plant as non-toxic to cats, but cinnamon still isn’t a treat. Pet Poison Helpline lists cinnamon oil among essential oils known to poison cats, and cats lack a liver enzyme to break such compounds down (Merck).
Good to know: For pets in general, even a little cinnamon powder may upset the stomach, and inhaled powder can cause coughing and trouble breathing (ASPCA). Be careful with scented oils and diffusers at home (Pet Poison Helpline).
Better choices, for example
Questions
Can dogs eat cinnamon?
Better not. AKC says cinnamon isn't toxic to dogs. Small amounts may cause mild stomach upset, and inhaled powder can cause coughing and trouble breathing (ASPCA).
Sources
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-toxic Plants – Cinnamon (non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses)
- Pet Poison Helpline – Essential Oils and Cats (cinnamon oil)
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Toxicoses From Essential Oils in Animals
- ASPCA – When Pumpkin Spice is Not So Nice (pets in general)
Last checked: October 2026