is oatmeal and cinnamon good for dogs
Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon?
Does your dog beg for your cinnamon scones? Have they ever gotten into the spice rack? If so, then youve probably wondered, perhaps somewhat frantically, if dogs can eat cinnamon. We know that certain people foods, like chocolate and grapes, can be toxic to dogs, so it makes sense that we should worry about foods and spices like cinnamon, too.
Is Cinnamon Toxic to Dogs?
The good news is that cinnamon is not toxic to dogs, though cinnamon essential oil can be toxic for pups. Your dog will not suffer fatal toxic effects from consuming too much cinnamon, but that does not necessarily mean you should be sprinkling it on kibble. The Pet Poison Helpline cautions that cinnamon can cause skin and digestive irritation and sensitization in both pets and people, especially if consumed in large quantities.
Cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon, and cinnamon in baked goods all offer opportunities for ingestion. Chewing on cinnamon sticks and consuming ground cinnamon or essential oil can cause irritation in your dogs mouth, and inhaling cinnamon powder can cause your dog to cough, choke, and have difficulty breathing.
How much is too much? The Pet Poison Helpline states that it takes more than one teaspoon of powder to cause problems for most pets, although essential oils can cause problems in lower dosages, and small-breed dogs may be sensitive to smaller amounts of cinnamon than larger breeds. The helpline also warns that a large cinnamon overdose can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, changes in heart rate, low blood sugar, and liver disease.
Help, My Dog Ate Cinnamon!
If your dog eats a large amount of cinnamon, you dont need to panic. You should, however, call your veterinarian. Cinnamon is not fatal to dogs, but the side effects of too much cinnamon can be uncomfortable, and your veterinarian may have additional concerns and suggestions to help your dog recover from this spicy snack.
Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon Baked Goods?
A little bit of cinnamon, like the amount used in most baked goods, is not going to hurt your dog. That being said, feeding your dog baked goods is not necessarily a good idea. Foods that are high in fat, sugar, and unnecessary calories can lead to obesity, diabetes, and complications such as pancreatitis. Some baked goods also may contain xylitol as a sweetener, which is very toxic.
If you do choose to feed your dog baked goods with cinnamon, only feed small quantities on a very irregular basis, and make sure they do not contain other ingredients that could be toxic or harmful to your dog, like xylitol, chocolate, or raisins.
Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Cinnamon might not be toxic to dogs, but nutmeg, another common baking spice often used with cinnamon in recipes, can have toxic effects. Nutmeg contains the toxin myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, disorientation, high blood pressure, abdominal pain, dry mouth, and even seizures.
These symptoms can last up to 48 hours, but the bright side is that it would take a large amount of nutmeg to cause problems for dogs. The small amount used in baked goods is generally safe. If your dog consumes a large amount of nutmeg by accident, however, call your veterinarian and keep a close eye on them.
Does Cinnamon Have Health Benefits for Dogs?
Cinnamon is reputed to have a number of health benefits for people, although these have not been proven conclusively. As exciting as this is for those of us who enjoy cinnamon and want an excuse to have more of it in our diets, we should be wary about jumping to the same conclusion for our dogs.
If you want to give cinnamon as a supplement for your dog, talk to your veterinarian about the possible risks and potential benefits. In the meantime, consider exploring other supplements with proven benefits to help your dog.
To make a long story short, yes, dogs can eat cinnamon in small quantities, but it is not necessary or recommended.
Can Dogs Have Cinnamon?
NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian first before giving your dog any new foods, especially people foods. What might be OK for one dog might not be good for yours, depending on multiple factors such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet.
Have you ever accidentally spilled some cinnamon on the floor, and your dog licked it up? Some dogs love the taste of cinnamon. Thankfully, this spice isnt toxic to them. In fact, some dog treats contain cinnamon.
However, it can be harmful if your dog eats too much cinnamon or has certain foods with cinnamon as an ingredient. So, when is cinnamon considered safe, and when is it dangerous for your pup?
Is Cinnamon Bad for Dogs?
A small amount of cinnamon isnt toxic for dogsunlikenutmeg, which is toxic to dogs. But if your dog inhales the spice, it can causecoughing,choking, lung irritation, and difficulty breathing.
Pet Poison Helpline warns that for most pets, eating more than a teaspoon of cinnamon powder or just a small drop of cinnamon essential oil can lead to serious toxicity.
Eating cinnamon powder or chewing on cinnamon sticks can cause dogs to have skin irritations and/or redness inside their mouths.
Larger amounts of the powder or exposure to the oil can lead to low blood sugar,liver disease,vomiting,diarrhea, and changes in heart rate.
Here are a few tips for keeping your dog safe from excessive amounts of cinnamon:
Keep your dog away from cinnamon essential oils. Do not use cinnamon oil in a diffuser in the same home as your dog (or cat).
Be careful when using cinnamon sticks for decoration or in ciderdo not let your pup near them.
Store cinnamon and other spices in high places in your house, where your dog cant get into them.
If your dog has inhaled or eaten an abnormal amount of cinnamon, ingested or inhaled any cinnamon essential oil, or chewed up some cinnamon sticks,contact your veterinarian immediately.
Are Cinnamon Treats Safe for Dogs?
Because of its nutrients, cinnamon can be safeand often beneficialwhen baked into your pups treats in small amounts. Cinnamon is known for these health benefits:
Before giving cinnamon to your dog, speak with your vet about whether its best for them.
Typically, the main health claim that dog treat manufacturers emphasize when using cinnamon in their products is its antioxidant benefit.
Here are a few dog treats that contain cinnamon:
Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon Rolls or Cinnamon Bread?
Although dog treats containing small amounts of cinnamon may provide health benefits for your pup, you shouldnt feed them any human food that contains cinnamon.
Eating raw cinnamon roll dough or bread dough is very dangerous if consumed in large amounts and if the product has yeast, which is highly toxic for pups.
Baked goods like cinnamon rolls and cinnamon bread contain ingredients that are toxic to dogssuch as nutmeg, raisins, and xylitol.
Additionally, these sweets have high amounts of fat, sugar, and butter, which isnt healthy for your pet, especially when fed regularly over time.
These human foods can cause health issues in your four-legged companion, including:
How Much Cinnamon Can Dogs Eat?
Commercial dog treats contain safe amounts of cinnamon.
However, contact your veterinarian to determine how much cinnamon is safe for your individual pup to ingest, as this may depend on the size of your dog.
What To Do if Your Dog Eats Cinnamon
The amount of cinnamon that is unsafe for your dog will depend on their size.
If your dog has eaten or inhaled too much cinnamon, chewed up a cinnamon stick, or ingested any amount of cinnamon essential oils, contact your vet and Pet Poison Helpline right away.
Take your dog to the nearest veterinary clinic or emergency animal hospital.
Ingestion of cinnamon may cause the following symptoms:
- Coughing
- Choking
- Difficulty breathing
- Bronchospasms
Also check for the following symptoms in their mouth:
- Irritation
- Redness
- Blisters
If your dog has ingested cinnamon essential oil, your vet needs to treat them quickly to prevent any toxic effects.
Once youre at the clinic, your vet will likely recommend bloodwork and urine testing to check your dog's liver and kidney function.
Depending on your dogs situation, they may use IV fluids for hydration and soft foods. They may also use a feeding tube if your dog has any chemical burns in their mouth or esophagus.
They may also give your dog anti-vomiting medication, or if your dog ate the cinnamon recently, they may induce vomiting.
Do not induce vomiting at home.
Other possible treatments that your vet may suggest are stomach protectants, pain medication, and medication to protect your pups liver.
The best way to prevent cinnamon toxicity in your dog is ensuring they never ingest, inhale, or are exposed to unsafe amounts of cinnamon.
Although certain human treats are tempting to give to your dog, it can often cause more harm than good.
Essential oils, including cinnamon, are not safe to be ingested or inhaled in any way.
If you have pets in the home, do not use a diffuser or give your dog any oils, even on the skin.
If your dog does get into cinnamon, more importantly a cinnamon stick or cinnamon oil, they should be taken to the nearest veterinarian as soon as possible for the best chance at avoiding the harsh effects of toxicity.
Can Dogs Have Cinnamon FAQs
Are dogs allergic to cinnamon?
Food allergies come from repeated exposure over time, so its rare for a dog to be allergic to cinnamon, but not impossible.
Can dogs eat cinnamon cereal?
No, you should not give your dog cereal that contains cinnamon.
There is a high amount of sugar in most breakfast cereals. Additionally, cinnamon cereals contain other additives and preservatives that are unhealthy or dangerous for your dog to eat.
Can dogs eat cinnamon oatmeal?
No. Cinnamon oatmeal typically contains a lot of sugar, preservatives, and other additives that are toxic to your dog.
Some brands list part of their ingredients as cinnamon and other spices. This means there could be nutmeg in the oatmeal, which is toxic for your pup.
Can dogs eat snickerdoodle cookies?
No. Snickerdoodle cookies are very high in sugar, butter, and fats that make them unhealthy for dogs to eat. Some snickerdoodle cookies may even contain nutmeg or xylitol, both toxins.
Can dogs eat cinnamon sugar?
No, dogs should not be eating cinnamon sugar, especially in large amounts.
This is unhealthy for them, may upset their stomachs, and could cause numerous health problems if fed regularly over time.
Can dogs eat cinnamon applesauce?
Avoid giving cinnamon applesauce for your pup.
It can contain high amounts of sugar and may have unhealthy or toxic ingredients for your dog, such as xylitol or nutmeg.
Featured Image: iStock/Anastasiia Shavshyna
References
Flint, Charlotte. Nutmeg And Cinnamon Toxicity. Pet Poison Helpline. 2013.
Is Cinnamon Safe for Dogs? Saint Francis Veterinary Center of South Jersey. 2020.
Flint, Charlotte. Nutmeg And Cinnamon Toxicity. Pet Poison Helpline. 2013.
Is Cinnamon Safe for Dogs? Saint Francis Veterinary Center of South Jersey. 2020.
WRITTEN BY
Victoria Lynn Arnold
Freelance Writer
Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal?
NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian first before giving your dog any new foods, especially people foods. What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors, such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet.
When its cooked and fed in moderation, oatmeal can be a great snack to share with your dog. Just make sure its prepared safelysteer clear of any dangerous ingredients that can make your dog sick and follow portion guidelines so she doesnt have too much.
But can dogs have raw oats? And what about oatmeal cookies? Heres what to know about preparing oatmeal so its safe for dogs to eat.
Is Oatmeal Good for Dogs?
Plain, cooked oatmeal can be a great addition to your dog's diet. This heart-healthy breakfast is rich in soluble fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins that help support your dogs coat and skin.
The high fiber content helps promote digestion and weight management. So incorporating cooked, plain oatmeal into your dogs food bowl may help regulate her digestive system and keep her feeling full longer, which is helpful for dogs who may need to shed a few pounds.
But when sharing your oatmeal, always steer clear from any extra ingredients that may make your dog sick, such as raisins or too much sugar.
Can Dogs Eat Uncooked Oatmeal?
Sprinkling raw oatmeal into your dogs food bowl might seem like an easy way to add fiber to her diet, but the uncooked grains are difficult to digest and can give her an upset stomach. Instead, prepare plain oatmeal with water and let it cool before sharing with your pooch.
How to Safely Prep Oatmeal for Dogs
Cooked, plain oatmeal can be a good addition to your dogs diet and contains many nutrients. But always avoid feeding your dog oatmeal that contains harmful toxic ingredients. Check the package for any of the following:
When cooking oatmeal, use water instead of milk because its better for your dogs digestive system. Cook the oatmeal as normal, without adding any sugar or salt. Let the oatmeal cool to room temperature before sharing with your dog, and start with small amounts as a complement to their usual food.
Always check with your vet before making any major changes to your dog's diet, especially if your pup has any health conditions or sensitivities.
How Much Oatmeal Can Dogs Eat Safely?
As with any new food, start slow. Just because oatmeal is OK to share with dogs does not mean she should have more than a few spoonfuls at a time! Youll want to avoid giving your dog too much oatmeal at once because the high fiber content can cause diarrhea or other digestive upset.
Note that these are just general guidelines. Its always best to check with your vet before making major changes to your furry friends food bowl.
Extra-small dog (220 pounds) = 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, up to twice per week
Small dog (2130 pounds) = 12 tablespoons, up to twice per week
Medium dog (3150 pounds) = 1/4 cup (or less), up to twice per week
Large dog (5190 pounds) = 1/2 cup (or less), up to twice times per week
Extra-large dog (91+ pounds) = 2/3 cup (or less), up to twice per week
Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal Cookies?
Not all oatmeal is created equally, and therefore not all oatmeal snacks are safe for dogs. Oatmeal cookies that contain ingredients such as raisins, chocolate, nutmeg, or xylitol are harmful and should be avoided.
But even if your oatmeal cookie doesnt contain raisins, chocolate, or nutmeg, the high levels of sugar, butter, and oil found in baked goods can make your pet sick. Stick with plain, cooked oatmeal and avoid the cookies altogetherunless you can find a pet-safe option that satisfies your dogs sweet tooth, like:
There are plenty of naturally sweet human foods that dogs can also safely snack on. Just keep in mind that any treats should only make up 10% of your dogs overall diet. The other 90% should come from a well-balanced dog food.
Featured Image: Adobe/evgeniarusinova
WRITTEN BY
April Saylor
Freelance Writer
