Why?
Curry powder is a blend of spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, fenugreek and chili, and it often includes garlic or onion powder, which damage a cat's red blood cells. Curry dishes add onion, garlic, coconut milk or cream, and salt. Chili and strong spices irritate the mouth and digestive tract.
How much?
No amount is recommended, powder or dish. Keep your plate and spice jars out of reach.
The risks
- Anemia if the curry contains garlic or onion
- Burning mouth and drooling
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Pancreatitis from rich coconut milk or cream sauces
Your cat ate some: what now?
Call your vet without waiting for symptoms, especially if the dish had onion or garlic: anemia can appear several days later. Keep the spice blend packaging or the ingredient list to show them, and don't try to make your cat vomit.
Better options
Before adding the sauce, set aside a small piece of plain cooked chicken for your cat. That's all they need.
Common questions
Is turmeric safe for cats?
Turmeric on its own isn't considered toxic, but it has no proven benefit in a cat's diet and can upset the stomach. Don't give turmeric supplements without your vet's advice.
My cat licked curry sauce. What should I do?
A single lick usually isn't serious, but curry sauce often contains onion and garlic. Keep an eye on your cat, and call your vet if they ate more than a little or start vomiting, seem tired or have pale gums.
This information is general and does not replace advice from a veterinarian. If your cat has swallowed something toxic, call your vet or an animal poison control center right away, without waiting for symptoms.