Are Hot peppers Toxic to Pets?
Yes — hot peppers are mildly toxic to cats. Yes — hot peppers are mildly toxic to dogs.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Toxic compound
- Capsaicin
- Toxic parts
- Fruit, seeds, sauces
- Also known as
- jalapenos, chili peppers, hot sauce
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
- Drooling and pawing at the mouth
- Excessive thirst
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Dogs (mildly toxic)
- Drooling and pawing at the mouth
- Excessive thirst
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
What to do
If your cat ate hot peppers
- Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.
If your dog ate hot peppers
- Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.
Good to know
Chili and jalapeno peppers are not truly toxic, but the capsaicin burns the mouth and gut and causes vomiting, diarrhea and distress.
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Frequently asked questions
Are hot peppers toxic to cats?
Yes — hot peppers are mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include drooling and pawing at the mouth, excessive thirst, vomiting.
Are hot peppers toxic to dogs?
Yes — hot peppers are mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include drooling and pawing at the mouth, excessive thirst, vomiting.
Which parts of hot peppers are toxic?
Fruit, seeds, sauces.
What makes hot peppers toxic?
Capsaicin.
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