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.
Sources
cat safety reference
Is Ambrosia Mexicana safe for cats?
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.
Ambrosia MexicanaChenopodium botrysFeather GeraniumJerusalem Oak
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Upright annual
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats can be poisoned by Ambrosia Mexicana — the ASPCA classifies the entire plant as toxic to cats. Sesquiterpene lactones in the leaves and stems are the culprit, so even nibbling foliage can upset a cat's stomach and dampen their mood.
What to watch for
Most common in cats: vomiting, refusal to eat (anorexia), and depression — the three signs ASPCA lists explicitly. Drooling and abdominal discomfort can also appear if a cat chewed multiple stems. Severity is usually mild to moderate.
Time window
ASPCA does not publish a specific onset or recovery window for Ambrosia Mexicana — exact timing not well documented. Plan to monitor your cat closely for 12–24 hours after a known or suspected nibble.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) if you saw any chewing, or if your cat starts vomiting, refusing food, or acting unusually withdrawn. Same-day evaluation is appropriate; don't wait overnight.
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
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Please contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center if you suspect your cat has consumed this plant.
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
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Ambrosia Mexicana is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs by the ASPCA.
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted scientific name and taxonomic classification for Chenopodium botrys.
Questions about Ambrosia Mexicana
Is Ambrosia Mexicana (Chenopodium botrys) toxic to cats?
Yes, Ambrosia Mexicana is considered potentially toxic to cats. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested, so it should be kept out of reach of cats.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating Ambrosia Mexicana?
The most common signs are vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Cats may also refuse food and appear depressed or unusually withdrawn. Severity is typically mild to moderate.
What should I do if my cat ate Ambrosia Mexicana?
Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if you saw your cat chewing the plant or if vomiting, food refusal, or lethargy develops. Same-day evaluation is appropriate — don't wait overnight to see if symptoms resolve.
How long after eating Ambrosia Mexicana will a cat show symptoms?
ASPCA does not publish a specific onset or recovery window for this plant. Monitor your cat closely for 12–24 hours after a known or suspected nibble, watching for vomiting, refusal to eat, drooling, or unusual withdrawal.
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