Dogs
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.
dog safety reference
Is Cuban Oregano safe for dogs?
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 dog
Dogs — toxic. ASPCA classifies Coleus (Plectranthus / Coleus amboinicus) as toxic to dogs; the essential oils in the leaves cause GI upset and, with larger ingestions, more serious systemic effects. Skin contact with the oily sap can also irritate paws and lips.
What to watch for
Vomiting and diarrhea (sometimes bloody), drooling, depression, and loss of appetite. With larger ingestions you may also see uncoordinated gait, tremors, or labored breathing. Watch the lips and gums for redness if the dog chewed leaves.
Time window
Most GI signs appear within a few hours of ingestion and resolve within 24 hours with supportive care; the cited sources do not give precise onset numbers.
When to call the vet
Call promptly if vomiting won't stop, you see blood in vomit or stool, the dog seems wobbly or weak, or breathing changes. Even mild GI signs in a small dog or after a large ingestion warrant a same-day call.
First aid at home
Take the dog away from the plant and wipe any plant material from the mouth and coat. Offer fresh water. Do not induce vomiting at home — VCA cautions that emetics and activated charcoal can be problematic 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.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
Escalation note
The essential oils in the leaves can be irritating to the digestive system. If your dog has ingested a significant amount, consult your veterinarian for guidance.
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
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Plectranthus amboinicus is a tender perennial herb with succulent, aromatic leaves.
Questions about Cuban Oregano
Is Cuban Oregano toxic to dogs?
Yes, Cuban Oregano (Coleus amboinicus) is potentially toxic to dogs. The essential oils in its fleshy, aromatic leaves irritate the digestive system and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating Cuban Oregano?
Expect vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), drooling, depression, and loss of appetite. After a large ingestion you may also see an uncoordinated gait, tremors, or labored breathing; check the lips and gums for redness if your dog chewed the leaves. Most GI signs appear within a few hours and typically resolve within 24 hours with supportive care.
What should I do if my dog ate Cuban Oregano?
Move your dog away from the plant and wipe any plant material from its mouth and coat, then offer fresh water. Do not induce vomiting at home — emetics and activated charcoal can be problematic with essential-oil exposures. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 for guidance.
Why is it dangerous to induce vomiting after a dog eats Cuban Oregano?
Cuban Oregano's toxicity comes from its essential oils, and VCA cautions that using emetics or activated charcoal with essential-oil exposures can cause additional harm rather than help. For this reason, decontamination should be directed by a veterinarian rather than attempted at home.
Same dog verdict
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