Borage

Yes, borage (Borago officinalis) is considered potentially toxic to cats. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal upset and potential liver irritation if ingested.

The most common early signs are drooling and vomiting; diarrhea may follow. If your cat brushed against the bristly leaves, watch for localized dermatitis on the muzzle or paws. Reduced appetite, lethargy, or yellowing of the gums lasting more than a day may indicate liver involvement and require prompt veterinary attention.

Wipe your cat's mouth and any plant residue from her fur with a damp cloth, and rinse any skin-contact areas with lukewarm water. Do not try to induce vomiting at home. Bag a leaf sample, then call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 for guidance on whether your cat needs to be seen.

Onset and duration are not well documented for cats specifically — veterinary references note that information on borage poisoning in cats is limited, including how fast signs appear and how much plant material matters. Treat any GI signs that persist past a few hours as worth a call to your vet; don't wait for severe symptoms, as cats are good at hiding illness.

Yes, borage (Borago officinalis) is potentially toxic to dogs. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause GI irritation, and the bristly leaves can also cause skin and mouth irritation on contact.

The main signs are drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some dogs develop dermatitis on the muzzle, lips, or paws from contact with the hairy leaves. With larger ingestions, watch for lethargy, loss of appetite, and signs of dehydration such as sticky gums — these can indicate the alkaloids are irritating the liver.

Rinse your dog's mouth and any skin contact areas with lukewarm water to remove plant residue. Do not induce vomiting at home — veterinary guidance advises against it for borage because it can worsen irritation. Save a sample of the plant, then call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

With moderate consumption and prompt treatment, most dogs recover completely within 24–48 hours. Call your vet immediately if vomiting or diarrhea continues past a couple of episodes, your dog seems weak or refuses food, or you suspect more than a mouthful was eaten — don't wait for symptoms to escalate before seeking care.