Can dogs eat nutmeg? And cats?
Toxic in quantity: myristicin causes disorientation, racing heart and seizures.
Toxic for the same reason. Keep spiced baked goods away.
Nutmeg contains myristicin, a compound that in more than a sprinkle can cause hallucination-like disorientation, elevated heart rate and seizures in dogs and cats. A pet licking a slice of spiced cake is usually fine; a dog eating from the spice jar or a whole spiced loaf is a poison-control call. Eggnog and pumpkin pie season is when it happens.
Signs to watch for
- Disorientation
- Racing heart
- High blood pressure
- Dry mouth
- Seizures in large doses
Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control people-foods guidance, Merck Veterinary Manual, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).