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

My 6 kg cat licked the pumpkin spice latte whipped cream topping off my mug. Is the nutmeg in it dangerous?

Cats · Food safety

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

Short answer

Yes, it's a high risk. Nutmeg is toxic to cats and can cause tremors and disorientation even in moderate amounts. Pumpkin spice blends often contain it, and a cat that size could ingest a concerning dose from a generous topping. Watch for wobbly walking, muscle twitches, or unusual agitation. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) right away to discuss what she licked.

Nutmeg — Food safety facts

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

Toxic in moderate amounts — causes tremors, seizures and disorientation. Keep spiced baked goods away.

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

Nutmeg 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.

Nutmeg has no place in everyday feeding: keep the rest of the day's food unchanged after this and watch the litter box and how quickly they finish the next meal.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Nutmeg food facts page.

Open the full food page: Nutmeg food facts →