Cats
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.
cat safety reference
Is Yarrow safe for cats?
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
What this means for your cat
Yarrow looks like a delicate herb, but ASPCA classifies it as toxic to cats. The plant's glycoalkaloids (achillein), monoterpenes, and sesquiterpene lactones (achillin) can produce both digestive upset and skin irritation, and the picture in cats is typically broader than the simple GI reaction you see with milder plants.
What to watch for
ASPCA-documented signs in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, colic, drooling, anorexia (loss of appetite), dermatitis, and depression. The combination of digestive signs and skin irritation is the hallmark — a cat that has been brushing through a yarrow patch may also show red, irritated skin where the foliage has contacted bare areas.
Time window
Onset and recovery windows are not well documented for yarrow in cats; ASPCA does not publish specific timing data.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) if vomiting or diarrhea continues beyond a few episodes, if your cat refuses food for more than half a day, or if you see signs of depression (unusual stillness, hiding, unresponsiveness). Persistent dermatitis or any swelling of the mouth also warrants a same-day call.
First aid at home
Rinse irritated skin with cool water if your cat will tolerate it, and remove any remaining plant material from the mouth and coat. Pet Poison Helpline emphasizes that there is no safe way to induce vomiting at home in cats and that hydrogen peroxide should never be given to cats — call your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) before attempting any home treatment.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
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.
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
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Achillea millefolium is a perennial herb native to the Northern Hemisphere, often used in pollinator gardens.
Same cat verdict
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