Cats & Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Yarrow
Achillea millefolium
Achillea millefolium is a hardy perennial herb known for its feathery, fern-like foliage and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers. While popular in gardens, it contains compounds that can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets.
Achillea millefoliumCommon YarrowDog DaisyMilfoil
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Clumping perennial
- Care
- Low
Safety status
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and potential skin irritation upon contact.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress. Please contact your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of this plant.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and increased salivation.
Escalation note
While typically mild, ingestion can cause significant stomach upset. Always consult a veterinarian if your dog shows signs of illness after exposure.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Yarrow is listed as toxic to both dogs and cats, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and dermatitis.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Achillea millefolium is a perennial herb native to the Northern Hemisphere, often used in pollinator gardens.
Questions about Yarrow
Is yarrow toxic to cats?
Yes, yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is potentially toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal distress, and contact with the foliage can irritate the skin.
What symptoms will a cat show after eating yarrow?
ASPCA-documented signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, colic, loss of appetite, and depression. Cats that have brushed through a yarrow patch may also develop dermatitis — redness or irritation on bare skin areas where the foliage made contact.
What should I do if my cat ate yarrow?
Remove any remaining plant material from your cat's mouth and coat, and rinse irritated skin with cool water if your cat will tolerate it. Do not try to induce vomiting at home — hydrogen peroxide should never be given to cats. Call your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 before attempting any home treatment.
When does a cat that ate yarrow need emergency vet care?
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) if vomiting or diarrhea continues beyond a few episodes, your cat refuses food for more than half a day, or you notice unusual stillness, hiding, or unresponsiveness. Persistent skin irritation or any swelling of the mouth also warrants a same-day call.
Is yarrow toxic to dogs?
Yes, yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and increased salivation, though the effects are typically mild and yarrow is not known to cause organ damage.
What are the symptoms if a dog eats yarrow?
The most common signs are vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and loss of appetite. Some dogs also develop abdominal discomfort, depression, or skin irritation (dermatitis) where the plant contacted their skin. Onset typically occurs within a few hours of ingestion.
What should I do if my dog ate yarrow?
Gently wipe out your dog's mouth with a damp cloth to remove any plant residue and offer fresh water. Do not induce vomiting at home. Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 before giving any treatment.
How long does yarrow poisoning last in dogs?
Most dogs recover within 24–48 hours with supportive care. Yarrow is not organ-toxic, so symptoms that persist beyond that window warrant a vet recheck. Small or young dogs, or any dog that ate a large amount, should be evaluated promptly rather than waiting to see if signs resolve on their own.
Same safety verdict
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