The Authority Suite
Pantry & Oils
Pepper: Safe for Dogs and Cats?
CautionDogs
A small amount of black pepper is not classified as acutely toxic to dogs, but the compound piperine can irritate the digestive tract and airways, so it should not be intentionally added to a dog's food.
Watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach discomfort
- Sneezing or nasal irritation
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-12
CautionCats
Black pepper is not considered toxic to cats, but the piperine it contains can irritate the mouth, stomach, and respiratory tract, so it should not be added to a cat's food or environment.
Watch for
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sneezing or coughing if inhaled
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.