Chamomile

Yes, chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is considered potentially toxic to cats. It contains compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and allergic skin reactions on contact. Concentrated forms like essential oils or tinctures carry higher risk than the plant itself.

The most common signs are vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite, typically appearing within hours of ingestion. You may also see drooling, pawing at the mouth, or an itchy rash if your cat had skin contact with the plant. With repeated long-term exposure, ASPCA notes a risk of bleeding tendencies such as bruising, nosebleeds, or blood in the stool.

Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away, especially if your cat ingested a concentrated form like an essential oil or tincture. GI symptoms typically resolve within about 24 hours with supportive care, but call your vet immediately if vomiting or diarrhea is more than a single mild episode, your cat refuses food for more than a meal or two, or you see facial swelling, worsening rash, or any signs of unusual bleeding or bruising.

GI signs like vomiting and diarrhea typically appear within hours of ingestion. Skin and contact reactions can show up immediately or take several hours. Bleeding-tendency effects are associated with long-term, repeated exposure rather than a single incident, so a one-time nibble carries a different risk profile than chronic access to the plant.

Yes, chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is considered potentially toxic to dogs. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and contact dermatitis. While a one-time small nibble is unlikely to be serious, repeated or large ingestions carry more risk, and chamomile-containing essential oils or concentrated tinctures are more dangerous than the plain plant.

The most common signs are vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, and excessive drooling. If the plant touched your dog's skin, watch for itchy, red, or irritated patches (contact dermatitis). Allergic reactions — including facial swelling or trouble breathing — are possible but less common. With chronic repeated exposure, ASPCA data flags bleeding tendencies such as bruising, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, or unexplained nosebleeds as a more serious concern.

Monitor your dog closely for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, which typically appear within a few hours and resolve within about 24 hours with supportive care. If your dog ate a chamomile essential oil, tincture, or a flavored tea bag (which may also contain xylitol or caffeine), treat it as urgent and call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear in those cases.

Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea is persistent or contains blood, if your dog seems lethargic or off food for more than 12 hours, or if you notice facial swelling or trouble breathing. Signs of an allergic reaction or any indication of abnormal bleeding or bruising also warrant prompt veterinary attention. Concentrated forms like essential oils or tinctures require a call right away regardless of symptoms.