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 Cuban Oregano safe for cats?
Coleus amboinicus
The Bread and Butter plant is a succulent herb known for its aromatic, fleshy leaves often used in culinary applications. While popular as a kitchen herb, it contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Coleus amboinicusCuban OreganoIndian BorageMexican MintPlectranthus amboinicus
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Spreading succulent
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats — toxic. ASPCA classifies Coleus (Plectranthus / Coleus amboinicus) as toxic to cats; the essential oils in the leaves irritate the mouth, GI tract, and skin. Cats are notably sensitive to plant essential oils, so even chewing a leaf or rubbing against a damaged stem can trigger a reaction.
What to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea — sometimes with traces of blood; loss of appetite, depression, and lethargy; pawing at the mouth or oral redness. If the cat brushed against a damaged plant, watch for skin irritation where sap touched the fur.
Time window
GI signs typically begin within a few hours of ingestion and resolve within about 24 hours with supportive care. Exact onset numbers are not well documented in the cited sources.
When to call the vet
Call promptly for repeated vomiting, bloody vomit or stool, marked listlessness, or any sign of difficulty breathing. Cats metabolize phenolic essential-oil compounds poorly, so don't try to ride out symptoms.
First aid at home
Move the cat away from the plant and wipe any plant residue from the muzzle and paws with a damp cloth. Rinse the mouth gently with water if the cat tolerates it. Do not induce vomiting and do not give activated charcoal at home — VCA warns that home remedies can be dangerous with essential-oil exposures. Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.
Sources: ASPCA, VCA Animal Hospitals.
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, and potential lethargy or loss of appetite.
Escalation note
Ingestion of plant material may cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract. Please contact your veterinarian if your cat shows signs of distress.
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
Coleus amboinicus is listed as toxic to cats and dogs.
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