Pantry & Oils
Cinnamon: Safe for Dogs and Cats?
The ASPCA considers cinnamon powder harmless to dogs in small amounts, but larger amounts can cause low blood sugar, liver changes, and breathing irritation, and cinnamon essential oil is far more dangerous even in small amounts.
Toxic principle: Concentrated cinnamon essential oil; large amounts of powder
Watch for
- Low blood sugar
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Changes in heart rate
- Coughing or breathing difficulty if powder is inhaled
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-12
The ASPCA lists cinnamon as non-toxic, but cats lack the liver enzymes to metabolize it well, so more than a pinch can cause mouth and stomach irritation, rapid heart rate, or breathing problems, and cinnamon essential oil is dangerous in any amount.
Toxic principle: Concentrated cinnamon essential oil; larger amounts of powder
Watch for
- Mouth, throat, or stomach irritation
- Hyperactivity
- Rapid heart rate
- Coughing or breathing difficulty if powder is inhaled
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-12
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.