A cat that gets a taste of the turkey sandwich you accidentally left on the counter may seem harmless until you consider everything that might be in it. Although many toppings such as lettuce or mayo can be safely eaten by cats in moderation, Mustard can cause issues especially in large amounts, making it unsuitable for your pet’s diet.
It may seem strange that a daily food additive like mustard can be palatable for humans but problematic for cats, but this is just one of countless examples of safe human food that can harm our pets. Let’s explore the breadth of issues involved in this explanation of why cats can’t eat mustard.
Why Don’t Cats Eat Mustard?
The main ingredients in most types of mustard are vinegar (distilled or apple cider vinegar) and mustard seeds. While they are both important in creating the unique flavor of mustard, they can also work together to complicate your cat’s digestive system. Add some marginal but highly toxic spices, including garlic and onion powder, and we have all the makings for an unpleasant experience.
All types of mustard contain mustard seeds (often ground into mustard powder), with different varieties adding a unique flavor and color to each style of mustard. 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.
Gastrointestinal Upset
Vinegar and table mustard seeds are not necessarily toxic to cats, but they can have adverse effects if your pet eats them in excess. Although vinegar may have some benefits, the acidity can cause stomach upset.
Also, some compounds in mustard seeds can promote oral and gastrointestinal issues, although mustard is unlikely to cause long-term harm. When cats eat more than a lick of mustard, it can cause immediate signs of gastroenteritis, such as:
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
Dry mustard powder is sometimes used to induce vomiting in pets, although this is not advisable. Vets point out that these and many other home remedies (eg, liquid dish soap, hot sauce) are generally contraindicated, as safer, less aggressive, and more reliable options are available. Never induce vomiting at home without the supervision of a veterinarian.
Mustard Seed Compounds
The compound that gives mustard its pungent aroma and sharp taste is allyl isothiocyanate. Its unique taste is a defense mechanism to protect the plant from herbivores. Beyond mustard seeds, this compound is abundant in similar spicy plants like horseradish and wasabi.
Fortunately, mustard seed repellency is often effective against many animals. Along with the sour taste of mustard vinegar, the taste often deters cats from eating anything more than a taste if it doesn’t completely deter them.
Additional Toxic Substances
While many common mustard spices like turmeric and paprika won’t harm a cat, garlic and onion powders that often contain mustard are highly toxic to cats, even in small amounts. Garlic, onions, and other Alliums are among the top poisons for cats in the daily diet.
Signs of Garlic and Onion Poisoning
Symptoms of garlic poisoning begin with gastroenteritis, which involves vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The issue progresses to oxidative damage to the cat’s red blood cells, with signs including:
- Rapid or labored breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Pale mucous membrane
- Dizziness
- Dark urine
- Weakness and collapse
Cats are about two to three times more susceptible to hemoglobin damage than other species, so it usually takes less than ⅛ teaspoon of garlic powder to cause poisoning. Fortunately, a typical mustard recipe only has about ⅛–1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every few cups of mustard. Since cats often won’t take more than a few licks, they probably won’t eat an excessive amount of garlic in one sitting.
Hematological damage is compounded, however, because it takes time for bone marrow to replace damaged red blood cells. If your cat eats small amounts of garlic and onion every day, they are less likely to experience injury.
What To Do If Your Cat Eats Mustard
Estimate how much mustard your cat has eaten. If they only take a few licks, provide fresh water and monitor for signs of distress. Because of the many compounds that cause stomach upset, your cat may vomit or have diarrhea, but they often get better quickly, usually within a few days.
If your cat is eating excessive amounts and showing severe signs of distress and persistent vomiting and diarrhea, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline. Online cat telehealth services are also available for immediate advice, often free of charge, to help determine if you should seek immediate medical care.
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Conclusion
Although your cat may experience adverse effects from vinegar and mustard seeds, problems from eating mustard are unlikely to progress beyond temporary vomiting or diarrhea. Cats generally have little desire to eat mustard thanks to its strong aroma and taste, so overconsumption is a rare issue. However, it’s important to get into the habit of protecting your sandwiches, hamburgers, and hot dogs, and you probably won’t have to worry about your cat having more than they can handle.
Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock
