Red: poisonous or dangerous
No, caffeinated tea is toxic to cats. The pet portal PetMD specifically mentions tea as a source of caffeine, and according to PetMD, caffeine is toxic to cats.
Why the traffic light is red
Black and green tea contain caffeine. At PetMD, veterinarian Sandra C. Mitchell lists coffee, tea and anything containing caffeine as the foods you shouldn't give your cat. According to PetMD, larger amounts of caffeine can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, hyperexcitability, tremors, seizures and cardiac arrhythmias.
How much tea becomes critical depends on the caffeine content and the size of your cat. Our sources do not mention a fixed limit. A licked drop is rarely dramatic. Loose tea leaves, tea bags or matcha powder are more concentrated.
And herbal tea? We can't give you a general answer here, because every plant is different, and data on cats is missing for many herbs. Herbal tea also does not replace fresh water. Tea with milk or sugar is also not a good idea.
What you should pay attention to
- Secure the cup: Cooled tea with milk irritates some cats.
- Discard tea bags: Do not leave used bags on the saucer. They still contain caffeine and can be swallowed.
- Close loose goods: Tea tins and matcha powder belong in the cupboard.
- No home remedies without consultation: Herbal tea for stomach ache only if your vet advises it.
What to do if your cat has drunk tea?
If your cat has taken a sip of black or green tea, keep a close eye on it. If she has eaten tea leaves, a bag or powder, call the vet immediately and say which type and how much.
Look out for restlessness, tremors, rapid heartbeat, vomiting and diarrhea. A swallowed tea bag can also cause intestinal obstruction.
If poisoning is suspected, go to the vet immediately or to the veterinary emergency service.
Treats and extras are part of the daily ration, but drinks are not treats. Offer your cat fresh water, preferably in several places in the apartment.
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Quellen, abgerufen am 05.11.2026: PetMD, What Things Are Poisonous to Cats? (Barri J. Morrison, DVM); PetMD, What Human Food Can Cats Eat? (Sandra C. Mitchell, DVM); PetMD, What Can't Cats Eat? 8 Toxic Foods for Cats (Jennifer Coates, DVM)
