Suspect poisoning? US: ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 · UK: 01202 509 000 · Severe symptoms → nearest emergency vet now.

Is it safe for my pregnant cat to be around used hops from home brewing, or could a lick harm her?

Cats · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

No, it is not safe — hops are highly toxic to all cats, and pregnancy does not change that risk. Even a small amount can trigger a rapid, often fatal rise in body temperature called malignant hyperthermia. You must keep all brewing materials, especially used hops which may still contain residues, completely sealed away and out of reach. If there's any chance your pregnant cat licked or ate any hops, treat it as an emergency and contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 right away.

Hops (used hops) — Food safety facts

Do not feed · Cats · full breakdown on the linked food page

Toxic — can trigger malignant hyperthermia (rapid, fatal rise in body temperature). Emergency if eaten.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Do not feed), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Hops (used hops) should not be given to cats at all. Even a small amount can do harm, so there is no portion small enough to be safe.

Do not induce vomiting and do not give milk or oil to “dilute” it. Note the food and roughly how much was eaten, then call your vet or a pet poison hotline and follow their advice on whether to bring the pet in straight away.

Why these cautions matter

Rich, fatty food is the classic trigger for pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas that usually needs veterinary treatment rather than rest alone.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Hops (used hops) food facts page.

Open the full food page: Hops (used hops) food facts →