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My 5 kg pregnant cat licked a small amount of eggnog sauce with nutmeg off a spoon — could this harm her or the kittens?

Cats · Food safety

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

Short answer

Yes, it could. Nutmeg contains myristicin, which is toxic to cats and can cross the placenta. Even a small lick for a 5 kg cat might be enough to cause neurological signs like disorientation or tremors. Pregnancy doesn't change the toxicity, but it adds stress. Watch her closely for the next 12 hours for any wobbliness, unusual vocalizing, or hiding. Do not wait for seizures to develop. If you notice any odd behavior, call your vet immediately and tell them exactly what she licked and how much you think was there.

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 →