Can cats eat liquorice? Take care — the catch
Quick answer: Not recommended — liquorice is best avoided for cats.
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
The glycyrrhizin and sugar are unsuitable, and sugar-free versions may contain xylitol.
Why
Do not offer liquorice to cats.
Feed cats safely
Tarhong Concentric Circle Slow Feeder Bowl for Dogs & Cats
A stylish slow-feeder bowl that encourages healthier, calmer mealtimes — available in blue, grey, or white.
£14.99
Bugalugs Scottish Salmon Oil for Dogs & Cats 500ml
A 100% natural daily supplement rich in omega 3, 6, and 9 from high-quality Scottish salmon — supports skin, coat, joints, and brain health.
£13.99
LickiMat Felix & Casper Slow Feeder Mats for Cats
Whisker-friendly flat feeding mats that slow mealtimes, reduce stress, and keep cats mentally engaged — freezer and microwave safe.
£10.99
LickiMat Classics Food Enrichment Lick Mat for Cats & Dogs
Rubber lick mats that slow feeding, encourage calm, and keep cats and dogs happily entertained — freezer and microwave safe.
£10.99
Can cats eat liquorice, and why?
Do not offer liquorice to cats. The glycyrrhizin and sugar are unsuitable, and sugar-free versions may contain xylitol.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
Warning — what to watch for
The glycyrrhizin and sugar are unsuitable, and sugar-free versions may contain xylitol.
If your cat has eaten liquorice, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
🚨 Find an emergency vet near youMore foods cats might eat
More for cats
Portion control and slow feeding help when a food needs care:
Dried Catnip & Cat Grass Leaf Treats
A tub of dried catnip and cat grass leaves to sprinkle over toys, scratchers and bedding.
From£8.99
James Wellbeloved Adult Dry Cat Food Turkey
A single-source turkey dry food for adult cats, without the grain-free or joint-support extras
From£21.79
Whiskas 1+ Lamb Adult Dry Cat Food
Complete lamb dry food for adult cats in a practical 1.9KG bag
£12.39
Whiskas 1 Tuna Adult Dry Cat Food
Complete tuna dry food for adult cats, offered in several bag sizes
From£3.19
Feeding & nutrition guides
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat liquorice?
Caution. Do not offer liquorice to cats.
What happens if my cat eats liquorice?
The glycyrrhizin and sugar are unsuitable, and sugar-free versions may contain xylitol. If your cat has eaten liquorice, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is liquorice poisonous to cats?
Caution. Do not offer liquorice to cats.
Free printable: safe & toxic foods for cats
liquorice is just one food — get the full one-page checklist of what’s safe, fine in moderation, or dangerous for cats. Vet-sourced, yours to print and keep.
Check liquorice for another pet
Sources
Our verdict on whether cats can eat liquorice draws on established UK and US veterinary and welfare organisations. Individual pets, quantities and preparation vary — always confirm with your own vet.