Nutmeg is the seed of the Myristica fragrans tree and is sold whole or ground as a warm aromatic spice. It is used in baked goods, custards, holiday drinks, pumpkin spice blends, and savory sauces. The related spice mace comes from the seed covering.
Nutmeg contains compounds such as myristicin that can cause serious neurologic and gastrointestinal signs in pets at toxic exposures. This is why nutmeg is not a safe seasoning to share. Concentrated spice blends and heavily spiced desserts can present hidden risk.
Exposure often comes from cookies, pies, eggnog, spice jars, and potpourri blends left within reach. Even when the dish is sweet, the spice load may still be meaningful for smaller pets. Keeping jars secured is important.
Nutmeg is frequently combined with cinnamon, clove, and ginger in seasonal spice blends, so exposure may come from mixed-spice foods where nutmeg is not obvious. Spiced batters, cookie dough, and beverage foams should not be shared with pets.
Ground spice jars and whole nutmeg seeds should stay in closed cabinets. Even small spills can be significant for small pets. Whole nutmeg grated over coffee or eggnog can still deliver concentrated spice.
For pets, avoid nutmeg and mace entirely and do not share spiced products containing them.
