{"id":645931,"date":"2024-09-09T06:16:06","date_gmt":"2024-09-09T10:16:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/?p=645931"},"modified":"2024-09-09T06:16:06","modified_gmt":"2024-09-09T10:16:06","slug":"can-cats-eat-mustard","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/nutrition\/can-cats-eat-mustard\/","title":{"rendered":"Can Cats Eat Mustard? Vet-Verified Risks & Precautions"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n <\/span>\n \nWhy Can\u2019t Cats Eat Mustard?<\/a>
\nWhat to Do If Your Cat Eats Mustard<\/a>
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A cat sneaking a taste of the turkey sandwich you accidentally left on the counter can seem harmless until you consider everything that might be in it. While many toppings like lettuce or mayo may be safe for cats to eat in moderation, mustard can cause issues especially in large amounts, making it unsuitable for your pet\u2019s diet.<\/strong><\/p>\n

It may seem strange that an everyday meal addition like mustard can be palatable for humans but problematic for cats, but it is just one of countless examples of safe human foods that can hurt our pets. Let\u2019s explore the extent of the issues involved in this explanation of why cats can\u2019t eat mustard.<\/p>\n

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Why Can\u2019t Cats Eat Mustard?<\/h2>\n

The main ingredients in most mustard types are vinegar (distilled or apple cider vinegar) and mustard seed. While both are essential in creating mustard\u2019s distinct flavor, they can also work together to aggravate your cat\u2019s digestive system. Add a few marginal yet highly toxic spices, including garlic and onion powder, and we have all the makings for a poor experience.<\/p>\n

All mustard varieties contain mustard seed (often ground into mustard powder), with different types adding unique flavor and color to each mustard style. Yellow mustard seeds and powder give traditional yellow mustard its relatively mild flavor, while the most intense brown mustard seeds give brown and Dijon varieties their signature spicy kick.<\/p>\n

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Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Gastrointestinal Upset<\/h3>\n

Vinegar and mustard seeds in table mustard aren\u2019t necessarily toxic to cats, but they can have adverse effects when your pet eats them in excess. Although vinegar may have some benefits, the acidity could cause an upset stomach.<\/p>\n

Likewise, some compounds in mustard seed can promote oral and gastrointestinal issues, though mustard is unlikely to cause lasting damage. When cats eat more than a lick of mustard, it may cause immediate signs of gastroenteritis, such as:<\/p>\n

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