Is Chamomile safe for cats?

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.