What is Cinnamon Allergy or Toxicity?
Although cinnamon is technically classified as non-toxic to cats, it can become toxic at certain levels– especially if your cat is exposed to the higher concentrations typically found in essential oils. Cats can be particularly susceptible to toxicity from cinnamon for a couple of reasons. Cats lack some of the liver enzymes that break down cinnamon compounds which can then build up if your pet is exposed to a high concentration in a short period of time, or, if your pet is exposed to a lower concentration over a long period of time. Also, because cats have thin skin, which can easily absorb cinnamon compounds applied in essential oils. This puts them at an increased risk for cinnamon toxicity.
Cinnamon can also act an irritant on the skin or in the oral cavity, causing rash and allergic-type reactions in cats and other animals. Because cats have sensitive skin and a keener senses of smell than humans, they are at an increased risk of reaction from exposure to cinnamon or the cinnamon aroma. If your cat exhibits symptoms of cinnamon allergic reaction or toxicity after being exposed to cinnamon you should consult with your veterinarian immediately.
Cinnamon, also referred to as cinnamomum, is commonly found in households and human food. There are two types of cinnamon: cassia and ceylon. Cassia cinnamon is commonly used in North America and contains higher levels of a substance called coumarin then ceylon cinnamon. Coumarin in high concentrations is used as a rodenticide (rat poison) and causes liver failure and haemorrhaging in rodents. In humans, cinnamon is sometimes used as a natural medicine to treat diabetes as it lowers blood sugar, or as a blood thinner.
Symptoms of Cinnamon Allergy or Toxicity in Cats
Continue Reading in next page
