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Do you want to know the honest and scientific answer to the common question “can dogs eat cinnamon?” Be careful what you read on the internet about cinnamon. It can be a tricky question if you live in the U.S. like I do. Some types of cinnamon are totally safe, but others can carry toxins that damage your dog’s liver. Today in this article we are going to learn about the different types of cinnamon, which kind of cinnamon is toxic and some health benefits your dog can gain if you choose the correct product.
Types of Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been used for food and medicine since the earliest days of recorded history. It was a prized and valuable ingredient usually saved for royalty or gods. There are over 40 species of trees in the genus Cinnamomum. Don’t worry, as dog lovers, all we need to know is Cinnamomum cassia, called Chinese cinnamon, and Cinnamomum verum called Ceylon cinnamon. The mixed messages about cinnamon stem from a difference in these varieties.
Cinnamon in North America
The mixed messages about cinnamon stem from a difference in those varieties. More than 70% of the cinnamon grown in the world is of the cassia variety. In the US, UK and India, almost 100% of the labeled ingredient “cinnamon” is cassia. So, can dogs eat cinnamon?
Can Dogs Eat Ceylon Cinnamon?
Ceylon cinnamon is the safest type of cinnamon for dogs. This lighter, more delicate variety of the spice is often used in drinks and other liquids. This plant is very expensive and time consuming to grow. So this type of cinnamon can sometimes be hard to find. If you have a question about an ingredient or label you can contact the manufacturer.
Can Dogs Eat Cassia Cinnamon?
Cassia cinnamon is the variety that can cause negative health effects in dogs. This plant contains higher amounts of a compound called coumarin. Coumarin is a natural group of bioactive substances. Activities of coumarins can range from killing cancer cells to fighting bacterial infections. However some coumarins have the potential to cause liver damage.
Each harvest of cassia can have various levels of coumarin. Small amounts of cassia cinnamon in responsibly produced pet products are usually not a problem.
Cassia is a strong, deeply spicy herbal product. It contains potent essential oils and over 160 separate biologically active compounds. This complex spice has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years.
What should you do if your dog eats some cinnamon?
If your pet consumes more than 1 tsp of cinnamon you should call your local animal emergency hospital. They will let you know if you need to bring your dog in to see a vet.
If your dog got a few licks of your cinnamon-vanilla latte she should be fine.
If your dog already has liver problems, organ damage or any other chronic disease you should try to avoid cinnamon ingredients. Work with your veterinarian to monitor these conditions carefully.
In general, cinnamon can have many health beneficial properties. Some types of cinnamon contain natural, but potentially damaging, compounds. So, its important to know what to look for and to understand the different types of cinnamon.
Check out some of my favorite cinnamon flavored treats that ARE safe for your pup.
Check out our other articles for even more knowledge to keep your dog healthy and happy!
7 Beneficial Herbs For Dogs That You Can Grow In Your Garden
Can Dogs Eat Blueberries? Are Blueberries Good For My Dog?
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