Can cats eat mustard? Maybe you’ve had this thought if your cat tried to sneak a taste while you used mustard to pep up your lunchtime sandwich. If humans can eat mustard, can cats safely eat it too?
The short answer is no, cats can’t safely eat mustard. The seeds are harmful for cats to ingest and can lead to a number of negative health issues. Additionally, it often contains additional ingredients that are also poisonous for cats.
Here’s what you need to know about mustard and cats.
Why Is Mustard Bad For Cats?
The main ingredient in mustard is mustards seeds. These are widely considered to be bad for cats to ingest.
On the one hand, if you notice that your cat has licked a very tiny bit of mustard off your plate out of curiosity, there’s a chance that they will be okay and not suffer any major negative reactions. But if a cat eats a larger amount of mustard, then it’s cause for concern.
When it comes to commercial brands of mustard bought in grocery stores or supermarkets, there’s a fair chance that they will also contain extra ingredients including garlic, various spices, and salt that can have an equally negative effect on your cat’s health.
If you notice that your cat has eaten mustard, they may suffer from a bout of gastroenteritis, which involves inflammation of the stomach and intestinal. This could, in turn, also lead to heavy cases of diarrhea and vomiting.
What Should I Do If My Cat Eats Mustard?
If you find out that your cat has sneaked in more than a few small licks of mustard, it’s best to monitor their behavior closely. Keep a look out for whether your feline begins to show any of the most common symptoms mentioned above.
If you notice your cat seems to be in pain or is vomiting a lot, call your veterinarian for advice on how to proceed. It will also be important to let the vet know exactly how much mustard your cat has consumed and your cat’s size and weight.
Has your cat ever tried to eat mustard? How do you keep dangerous foods out of your cat’s reach? Let us know in the comments below!
