Can pets eat liquorice?
Here’s whether liquorice is safe for each kind of pet, based on established veterinary guidance.
Can dogs eat liquorice?
CautionLiquorice is best avoided for dogs and should not be given as a treat.
Risk: Real liquorice contains glycyrrhizin, which in larger amounts can raise blood pressure and lower potassium; the sweets add sugar and some sugar-free versions contain toxic xylitol.
Full guidance: can dogs eat liquorice? →Can cats eat liquorice?
CautionDo not offer liquorice to cats.
Risk: The glycyrrhizin and sugar are unsuitable, and sugar-free versions may contain xylitol.
Full guidance: can cats eat liquorice? →Can rabbits eat liquorice?
UnsafeLiquorice is not safe for rabbits.
Risk: A sugary sweet that can badly upset a herbivore gut, and real liquorice affects blood pressure and potassium.
Full guidance: can rabbits eat liquorice? →Can guinea pigs eat liquorice?
UnsafeNever give liquorice to guinea pigs.
Risk: Far too sugary for a strict herbivore, with the added concern of glycyrrhizin.
Full guidance: can guinea pigs eat liquorice? →Can hamsters eat liquorice?
UnsafeDo not feed liquorice to hamsters.
Risk: The sugar and glycyrrhizin are unsuitable, and sticky sweets can clog cheek pouches.
Full guidance: can hamsters eat liquorice? →Worried your pet has eaten too much?
Contact your vet straight away, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). This page is general guidance based on veterinary sources and isn’t a substitute for professional advice — amount, preparation and your pet’s health all matter.
Related foods
Sources
Our guidance on whether pets 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.