Cinnamon toxicity in pets

substance: Cinnamaldehyde

categories:

Spices

symptoms:

Abdominal pain / Diarrhea / Hypersalivation / Vomiting

# Description

Cinnamon can be mildly toxic to pets, primarily if ingested in significant amounts. While small quantities generally don't cause serious harm, larger doses can lead to gastrointestinal upset, and in rare cases, hypoglycemia or liver damage—though severe symptoms are more common with cinnamon essential oil, which has concentrated levels of the irritant compound cinnamaldehyde. Due to cinnamon's natural emetic effect (causing vomiting), severe poisoning is unlikely in most cases, as pets often expel it before dangerous levels are absorbed. Signs of cinnamon ingestion in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and mild mouth irritation.

# How it works

Cinnamaldehyde’s primary mechanisms of action in pets are

irritation through TRPA1 receptor activation
disruption of cellular membranes (it can increase membrane permeability, leading to cellular damage or irritation, especially in the mucosal linings of the GI tract),
inhibition of liver enzymes,
hypoglycemic effects (by enhancing insulin sensitivity and stimulating insulin secretion).

# Symptoms

Gastrointestinal: vomiting, diarrhea and hypersalivation due to mouth irritation.

Metabolic: hypoglycemia. which can lead to dizziness or fatigue.

Cardiovascular: hypotension.

Hepatic: In severe cases, high doses or cinnamon essential oil exposure can cause liver damage.

# Treatment

Inducing emesis is typically unnecessary unless a large amount has been consumed and the patient is not showing gastrointestinal symptoms. Generally, home care and observation are sufficient. However, if the patient begins to exhibit clinical signs, they should be taken to a veterinary clinic for symptomatic treatment.

# Prognosis

Od your per has eaten a small amount home monitor for signs of irritation or gastrointestinal distress should be sufficient. If they ate a larger amount, especially in an essential oil form, contact your veterinarian right away.

Symptoms