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 Chamomile safe for cats?
Anthemis nobilis
Chamomile is a flowering plant in the daisy family often used in herbal teas and essential oils. While popular for human use, it contains compounds that can cause adverse reactions in pets if ingested.
Anthemis nobilisChamaemelum nobileGarden chamomileRoman chamomile
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Low-growing, spreading herb
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats can react to chamomile, even though it is famous as a soothing herb in human cups of tea. ASPCA lists Anthemis nobilis as toxic to cats, with effects ranging from contact dermatitis on the skin to vomiting and diarrhea after ingestion. Cats are usually more sensitive than dogs to its essential-oil compounds.
What to watch for
Most-common to least: vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite after ingestion; drooling or pawing at the mouth from oral irritation; itchy skin, redness, or rash from contact (allergic dermatitis). With chronic or repeated exposure, ASPCA notes long-term use can lead to bleeding tendencies, which can show up as bruising, nosebleeds, or blood in stool.
Time window
GI signs typically appear within hours of ingestion and resolve in 24 hours or so with supportive care. Skin/contact reactions can be immediate or take several hours to appear. Bleeding-tendency effects are tied to long-term, repeated exposure rather than a single nibble.
When to call the vet
Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea is more than a single mild episode, if your cat is refusing food for more than a meal or two, if you see facial swelling or a worsening rash, or if there is any sign of unusual bleeding or bruising. Concentrated chamomile essential oils or tinctures are higher risk than plant material — call right away if your cat licked or was dosed with one.
Sources: ASPCA (no first-aid guidance).
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
Vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and potential allergic skin reactions upon contact.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress. If your cat has consumed this plant, please contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately.
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
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted botanical nomenclature for Chamaemelum nobile (syn. Anthemis nobilis).
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