Can Cats Eat Mint? Everything You Need To Know
Last updated on October 17th, 2024 at 06:52 am
Can Cats Eat Mint?
If you’re a cat owner, you may be wondering, can cats eat mint? Whether you have fresh mint in your garden or use mint-flavoured products at home, it’s common to wonder if it’s safe for your feline friend. The short answer is no—cats should not eat mint. Mint can be harmful to cats, and it’s best to keep it out of their reach.
About Mint
There are many different plants in the mint family. Most of them share a distinctive scent, as well as their unique square stems and large leaves.
This plant is commonly used in various meals, desserts, drinks, and candies, making it a versatile herb in any kitchen.
Every plant in this family also contains mint essential oil, which is what gives mint its scent.
Though this oil smells fantastic, it is the part of the plant that can cause issues if ingested by cats.
Can Cats Eat Mint?
No, cats should not eat mint, including any part of the mint plant or mint essential oils. While small amounts of mint are generally non-toxic to cats, large quantities can lead to mint poisoning.
These oils can cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhoea, and can even lead to more severe complications if a significant amount is ingested.
Why Cats May Want To Eat Mint
Though mint isn’t a great meal choice for cats, there is a very specific reason why they may choose to nibble on this herb if they come across it in the wild or your home garden.
Catnip, also called catmint, is a favorite feline treat, thanks to the state of euphoria it induces in many cats.
Not only will they eat it, but they also take great pleasure in rolling around in it.
Unfortunately for kitties, catnip and mint have a similar scent, so cats may mistake it for their favorite snack.
They also both contain nepetalactone, which is what causes the drug-like state in cats, so they may be drawn to mint looking for a high.
Why is Mint Dangerous for Cats to Eat?
Mint is dangerous for cats because it contains those essential oils we mentioned above.
When we eat mint in our foods or beverages those oils are diluted, so they don’t cause any damage to humans.
Cats don’t have this option, though, eating the plant itself.
All parts of mint plants contain those essential oils, so nibbling them gives the cat a concentrated dose with each bite.
If a cat only eats a few bites of a mint plant, it likely won’t have any negative symptoms. Too much of it, though, can be quite harmful, depending on the type they eat.
First of all, the essential oils in garden mint can relax the esophageal valve, which can cause vomiting.
It can also cause issues in felines with underlying illnesses involving their liver, intestines, or bowels.
The pennyroyal species of mint can also cause liver issues, including liver failure, in cats.
Even coming into contact with the plant can cause skin irritation in cats with hypersensitivity.
Types of Mint that are Toxic to Cats
Not all mint is the same, but several common types of mint are toxic to cats. Here are the types of mint you need to keep away from your feline friend:
- Peppermint: Contains menthol, which can be toxic and cause gastrointestinal distress.
- Spearmint: Also contains essential oils that can lead to vomiting and diarrhoea in cats.
- Pennyroyal: This type of mint is especially dangerous and can cause severe toxicity, including liver damage and even death.
- Wild Mint: Often found growing in gardens, wild mint can also be harmful to cats if ingested.
These mints all contain essential oils that can pose serious health risks to cats, so it’s best to keep them out of reach.
Herbs that are Safe and Unsafe for Cats
It’s not just mint that cat owners need to be careful with. Many herbs can either be safe or harmful to your feline friend. Here’s a quick guide to herbs that are safe and unsafe for cats:
Safe Herbs for Cats
- Catnip: Completely safe and offers a fun, stimulating experience for most cats.
- Cat Grass: Good for digestion and generally well tolerated by cats.
- Valerian Root: Another safe alternative that many cats find enjoyable.
- Rosemary: In small amounts, rosemary is safe and non-toxic to cats.
- Thyme: Non-toxic and generally safe for cats to nibble on.
Unsafe Herbs for Cats
- Mint: As mentioned earlier, mint contains essential oils that are toxic to cats.
- Oregano: Toxic to cats and can lead to gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
- Chives: Part of the allium family, chives can be harmful to cats and cause digestive issues.
- Garlic: Extremely toxic to cats and can cause serious health issues, including damage to red blood cells.
- Parsley: While small amounts may be safe, large quantities can be harmful, particularly curly parsley.
These herbs can pose various risks, from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe toxicity, so it’s crucial to know what’s safe and what’s not for your cat.
Symptoms of Mint Poisoning in Cats
Though a few bites of a mint plant likely won’t cause any issues in cats, ingesting a great deal of it can cause some serious consequences.
If you happen to have mint within your cat’s reach and are concerned they may have been snacking on it, it may be a good idea to watch for certain symptoms.
Doing so will tell you whether or not your cat is suffering from mint poisoning.
Here are some signs to look out for:
- Vomiting: One of the most common symptoms when a cat has ingested something toxic.
- Diarrhoea: Gastrointestinal upset is a frequent result of mint ingestion.
- Excessive Drooling: Mint’s essential oils can cause excessive salivation.
- Lethargy: A poisoned cat may appear unusually tired or weak.
- Difficulty Breathing: The strong scent of mint can irritate a cat’s respiratory system, leading to laboured breathing.
- Loss of Appetite: A lack of interest in food can be a warning sign of toxicity.
If your cat is showing any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your vet immediately for professional advice.
Mint Poisoning Treatment Options
Mint poisoning is rarely fatal in cats, with most pets recovering within a few days.
If you suspect your cat has mint poisoning, it’s best to book a visit with their veterinarian.
A vet will monitor your cat’s symptoms, inducing vomiting if needed or pumping their stomach if the symptoms are more severe.
Your cat may have to spend a few days in the vet’s care to prevent dehydration and to ensure that its symptoms don’t get any worse.
Can Cats Eat Mint Leaves or Stems?
Can cats eat mint leaves or stems? The simple answer is no—cats should not eat mint leaves or stems. The leaves and stems of mint plants contain essential oils that can be harmful to cats. Even a small amount can cause gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms of toxicity.
Why Are Mint Leaves and Stems Dangerous?
The essential oils found in mint leaves and stems, such as menthol and pulegone, are toxic to cats. These compounds can irritate the digestive system and may even affect the nervous system if ingested in large amounts. Cats’ livers are not well-equipped to process these oils, which is why they can become toxic quickly.
What Should You Do If Your Cat Eats Mint Leaves or Stems?
If you catch your cat nibbling on mint leaves or stems, here’s what you should do:
- Remove the Mint: Make sure your cat no longer has access to the mint plant.
- Check for Symptoms: Keep an eye out for any signs of toxicity like vomiting, diarrhoea, or lethargy.
- Contact Your Vet: If symptoms appear, contact your vet for professional advice. They may recommend bringing your cat in for an examination.
Are Mint-Scented Products Dangerous for Cats?
Are mint-scented products dangerous for cats? Yes, mint-scented products can be dangerous for cats. The essential oils used in these products can be toxic if inhaled or ingested by your cat. Products like mint-scented candles, air fresheners, or essential oil diffusers can release harmful compounds into the air, which may cause respiratory issues or other health problems for your cat. For more information on the dangers of essential oils for pets, see PetMD’s article on Essential Oils and Pets.
Symptoms of Exposure to Mint-Scented Products
If your cat is exposed to mint-scented products, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Coughing or Sneezing: Inhalation of mint scents can irritate your cat’s respiratory tract.
- Watery Eyes or Nose: Signs of irritation due to exposure.
- Lethargy: Your cat may become unusually tired or disinterested in normal activities.
- Vomiting: If ingested, the oils can cause vomiting or other digestive issues.
If you observe these symptoms, remove the source of the scent immediately and contact your vet for further advice.
How to Keep Your Cat Safe from Mint-Scented Products
To keep your cat safe, it’s best to avoid using mint-scented products in areas where your cat spends time. Here are some tips:
- Use Cat-Safe Air Fresheners: Look for pet-safe alternatives that do not contain harmful essential oils.
- Keep Mint Products Out of Reach: Store mint-scented candles, sprays, and diffusers in places your cat cannot access.
- Ventilate Your Home: Ensure proper ventilation if you do use scented products, and keep your cat away until the area is aired out.
How To Prevent Your Cat From Eating Mint
There are several ways to prevent your cat from eating mint.
First of all, if you have any mint in your house, keep it out of your cat’s reach.
Cats do like to jump and climb, so this can be difficult, but placing the mint somewhere they can’t get to is a must to keep them healthy.
If you have any foods that contain mint, it is best to keep those away from your cat as well.
Though the essential oils will be diluted, it still isn’t healthy for cats to nibble on, so placing those items in a cupboard or fridge will prevent your cat from sampling them.
If you have mint outside in your garden, plant catnip around it.
A cat will always choose catnip over mint, so planting both will ensure they stay out of the more harmful plant.
FAQs About Cats and Mint
Can Cats Eat Peppermint?
No, peppermint is not safe for cats. It contains essential oils that can be toxic, just like other types of mint.
What Happens if a Cat Smells Mint?
If a cat smells mint, it might be drawn to it, but too much exposure can lead to respiratory irritation. Keep mint products away from your cat to avoid any potential issues.
Is Catnip the Same as Mint?
No, catnip is a different plant and is safe for cats. Catnip belongs to the mint family, but unlike traditional mint, it doesn’t contain toxic essential oils for cats.
Conclusion: Can Cats Eat Mint?
So, can cats eat mint? In short, no. Mint is not safe for cats and can lead to health issues if ingested. This includes both the leaves and stems of mint plants, as well as mint-scented products, which contain harmful essential oils. To keep your feline friend safe, it’s best to avoid having mint plants or mint-flavoured products within reach of your cat. Instead, offer safe alternatives like catnip or cat grass, which your cat can enjoy without the risks.
Got any experiences or questions about cats and mint? Leave a comment below and share your story with fellow cat owners!
About The Author: Hi, I’m Jessica. I’m a Mom of 2 and I love DIY hacks, home decor ideas and non-toxic cleaning tips. I created this website to share my knowledge with a community of like-minded people who love simple, easy and safe ways to keep their home clean and inspiring. I hope you enjoy!
