Can Cats Eat Mint?

⚠️ In Moderation

⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just ate something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.

A leaf of garden mint is low risk, but mint’s essential oils can upset cats — offer catnip instead.

Why it’s a sometimes-food

Common mints (Mentha species) contain menthol and essential oils that irritate feline stomachs, and larger amounts cause vomiting and weakness. Mint is also confused with catnip constantly — catnip (Nepeta) is a different plant and much safer, so the treat most cat owners intend is usually the other herb.

How to serve it safely

If at all, one small leaf of plain mint occasionally. If the goal is a happy cat, offer catnip or cat grass instead.

Warning signs to watch for

Drooling, vomiting and diarrhea; larger doses cause weakness and wobbliness.

When to call the vet

Call your vet if a cat eats a lot of mint foliage, and skip mint essential oils entirely.

Common questions

Is mint the same as catnip?

No — they are related but different plants. Catnip is famously safe and fun; garden mint is the one with stomach-upsetting oils.

More foods for cats

Salmon✅ SafeYes, when fully cooked and unseasoned. Salmon is a nutritious fish most cats enjoy.Tuna⚠️ In ModerationOccasional small amounts only — tuna should be a treat, never a meal.Cow’s Milk🚫 Not RecommendedBetter to skip it. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant and milk gives them stomach upset.Garlic☠️ ToxicNo. Garlic is poisonous to cats — even more potent per gram than onion.Cooked Eggs✅ SafeYes, fully cooked and plain. Eggs are a protein-rich treat cats usually enjoy.Cheese⚠️ In ModerationSmall bites are usually fine, but many cats cannot digest dairy well.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away.