Cats should never drink tea that contains caffeine as it’s very toxic to cats. However, cats can drink some non-caffeinated teas. Chamomile, echinacea, calendula, valerian (dilute and low dose), licorice root, dandelion root tea are all fine for cats to drink. Be sure your cat does not drink tea that contains herbs that are toxic to cats.
Can Cats Drink Tea?
Whether or not cats can drink tea depends heavily on if it contains caffeine. Caffeine is a substance that is very toxic to cats. About 10 milligrams of caffeine per pound of body weight is enough to be toxic or fatal to a cat. So a 10 pound cat would need 100 milligrams of caffeine to experience serious poisoning.
To put that in perspective, one cup of black tea contains about 50 milligrams of caffeine. While that may not cross the threshold for serious poisoning, it’s still never a good idea to take chances. Every cat responds differently to caffeine, and that might be enough to cause serious harm.
By the way, cats also can’t drink coffee for this exact same reason.
Which Teas Can Cats Drink?
If the tea is non-caffeinated, there is a chance your cat can drink it. Herbal teas such as chamomile, echinacea, calendula, valerian (dilute and low dose), licorice root, dandelion root, and cat’s claw tea are all fine for cats to drink.
Which Herbal Teas Are Bad For Cats?
Always check whether your cat can have all the herbs in a tea. You may be surprised at some of the herbs that are toxic to cats.
- Oregano
- Marjoram
- Chives, onions, garlic, scallions
- Tarragon
- Lemongrass
- Spring Parsley
- Bay Leaf
- Cannabis
- Mace
- Lemon verbena
Symptoms of Caffeine Consumption in Cats
It’s always good to be aware of the signs of caffeine poisoning in cats. If you see several or all of these symptoms, definitely take your cat to the vet or call pet poison control.
- High energy
- Restlessness
- Agitated behavior
- Panting
- Elevated heart rate
- Vomiting
- Tremors and heart palpitations (in severe cases)
Do Cats Like Tea?
Whether your cat will like a tea depends on what’s in the tea. Cats love cream (such as milk or creamer), so if you put cream in your tea they might try to drink it. However, cats should not drink milk, or other dairy products for that matter, because they’re lactose intolerant. Cats can drink almond milk and oat milk in small doses, though.
Not only that, but cats like the scent of certain herbs. Your cat might be drawn to chamomile or mint teas. Believe it or not, mint is part of the same plant family as catnip, and many cats are actually drawn to it.
