Can Cats Eat Ginger?

Yes, cats can eat ginger in moderation.

Ginger is a common fragrant spice that is used in many cuisines worldwide. Known for its rough and knotty appearance, it can also be dried, powdered, crystallised, pickled, preserved, and candied. It is packed with nutrients such as vitamins B3, B6, and C, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, folate, and zinc.

Just like dogs, cats can safely eat limited amounts of ginger with your veterinarian’s approval. It can help alleviate a cat’s upset stomach or even reduce nausea caused by motion sickness. However, it should be avoided by cats that just had surgery, have gallstones or ulcers, or take medication for blood pressure or diabetes.

How to feed ginger to your cat: Always clean the root, remove the skin, and finely mince the “fingers.” Give your cat a small piece and see how she reacts to it. Pet Care Advisors recommends giving a cat ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon of fresh or powdered ginger depending on her size, age, weight, and health conditions. Be sure not to go over the recommended amount as it may irritate her tummy. It may also be best not to give ginger on an empty stomach.

Make homemade ginger tea for your cat by adding grated fresh ginger in a cup of hot water. Let it steep for a few minutes then remove the bits before serving. Aside from tea, ginger capsules or ginger extract may also be fed to your cat. On the other hand, ginger-flavoured biscuits, beer, ale, and candy should never be given because these contain toxic ingredients for your cat.

In summary: Though ginger has a strong and pungent taste, your cat may grow to love eating it as long as it is gradually introduced to her. Ginger can help treat your cat’s cardiovascular and digestive problems such as bloating, indigestion, stomachache, and arthritic pain.

Aside from ginger, find out which vegetables you can safely feed to your cat in our blog.