Cats & Dogs
Generally safeConsulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Beet
Beta vulgaris
Beta vulgaris is a widely cultivated vegetable known for its edible taproot and leafy greens. It is considered safe for household pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
BeetBeta vulgarisChardGarden BeetTable Beet
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Herbaceous
- 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
None expected, though excessive consumption of fibrous material may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered non-toxic. If your cat consumes a large amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None expected, though excessive consumption of fibrous material may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered non-toxic. If your dog consumes a large amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Beetis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
The beet plant is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Beta vulgaris is a biennial plant in the Amaranthaceae family, commonly grown for its edible roots and leaves.
Questions about Beet
Are beets toxic to cats?
Beets (Beta vulgaris) are considered non-toxic to cats. They are classified as generally safe, with no toxic compounds documented that would harm your cat.
What happens if my cat eats beet greens or the root?
No symptoms are expected from a small amount. Excessive consumption of the fibrous plant material may occasionally cause mild vomiting or diarrhea due to the bulk, not any toxic principle.
How much beet would cause a problem for my cat?
Beets are non-toxic, so there is no dangerous dose in the way there would be for a poisonous plant. That said, large amounts of fibrous plant matter can upset any cat's digestive system, so keep portions incidental rather than a regular food source.
My cat ate a piece of beet — should I call the vet?
A small nibble is very unlikely to cause any issue. If your cat ate a large quantity and is showing signs of distress such as repeated vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, contact your veterinarian.
Are beets toxic to dogs?
Beets (Beta vulgaris) are considered non-toxic to dogs. They are generally safe, though that does not mean dogs should eat them freely or that they offer any nutritional benefit specifically for dogs.
What happens if a dog eats a beet?
Most dogs will have no reaction at all. If a dog eats a large amount of beet, the fibrous plant material may occasionally cause mild vomiting or diarrhea, but serious symptoms are not expected.
How much beet is too much for a dog?
There is no established toxic dose because beets are non-toxic, but large quantities of any fibrous vegetable can upset a dog's digestive system. If your dog eats a significant amount and shows signs of distress such as vomiting or diarrhea, contact your veterinarian.
Do I need to call the vet if my dog ate beet leaves or beet root?
Beets are classified as generally safe, so a small or moderate ingestion of either the taproot or the leafy greens does not require an emergency call. Monitor your dog for digestive upset; if symptoms persist or your dog seems uncomfortable, call your veterinarian.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus
Garden cosmos is a daisy-like annual usually treated as a pet-safe flowering option, though any large plant ingestion can still cause mild stomach upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Calathea
Calathea spp.
Calathea are popular tropical houseplants known for their striking, patterned foliage and rhythmic leaf movement. They are considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Dwarf Date Palm
Phoenix acaulis
The Dwarf Date Palm is a slow-growing, stemless palm species native to the grasslands of India. It is widely appreciated for its compact, architectural foliage that mimics the appearance of larger date palms in a miniature form.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Hanging Lobster Claw
Heliconia rostrata
Heliconia rostrata is a tropical perennial known for its dramatic, pendulous inflorescences. While generally considered non-toxic to pets, ingestion of any plant material can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Same growing conditions
Plants for the same room
Ambrosia Mexicana
Chenopodium botrys
Chenopodium botrys is an aromatic annual herb often grown for its unique scent and foliage. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Celosia
Celosia plumosa
Celosia is a popular ornamental plant known for its vibrant, feathery, or plume-like flower spikes. It is widely considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Loco Weed
Oxytropis spp.
Loco Weed is a genus of perennial plants often found in wild, open landscapes. While generally considered non-toxic to pets, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats.
Not yet rated for dogs.
Zinnia
Zinnia species
Zinnias are popular, colorful annual flowers known for their ease of growth and vibrant blooms in garden beds and containers. They are considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.