Why limited
Keep Cloves to small, occasional amounts. Sensitive pets may react to it, and sugar- or fat-heavy foods raise the risk of obesity and pancreatitis.
Contain eugenol, which is irritating and can affect the liver in quantity.
Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Feed with care), so the notes below hold for either pet.
If it ate some before you noticed, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness or a painful, swollen abdomen over the next 24 hours. A one-off small amount in a healthy adult usually passes with water and rest; repeated exposure, a puppy or kitten, a senior, or a pet with an ongoing illness is a reason to call your vet the same day.
Other foods that need limits
The full A–Z food list groups every food by verdict for each species.
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat Cloves?
CAUTION — limited. Contain eugenol, which is irritating and can affect the liver in quantity.
How much Cloves can cats have?
Keep Cloves to small, occasional pieces and never part of the main meal. It is classed as with care, so pets with a sensitive gut, pancreatitis or diabetes should skip Cloves entirely.
What reaction should I watch for after cats eats Cloves?
In the 24 hours after cats eats Cloves, look for vomiting, diarrhoea, gas or a drop in appetite. Contain eugenol, which is irritating and can affect the liver in quantity.
How often can cats have Cloves?
Save Cloves for rare moments rather than building it into a routine; your cat may enjoy it, but that alone does not make it fit to feed often.
What are safer treats than Cloves for cats?
Pick from the safe list instead — Cauliflower or Cranberries carry none of the risk that Cloves does, and they work better as an everyday treat.