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
Pampas Grass
Cortaderia selloana
Pampas Grass is a large, ornamental perennial grass known for its dramatic, feathery plumes and sharp-edged foliage. It is generally considered safe for pets, though its fibrous nature may cause mild digestive irritation if consumed in large quantities.
Cortaderia selloanaPampas Grass
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- 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 from typical contact; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may lead to mild vomiting or gastrointestinal upset.
Escalation note
Non-toxic. If your cat consumes a significant amount of the foliage and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None expected from typical contact; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may lead to mild vomiting or gastrointestinal upset.
Escalation note
Non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount of the foliage and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Pampas Grassis 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
Pampas Grass is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
A large, clump-forming ornamental grass that is widely used in landscapes for its showy, plume-like inflorescences.
Questions about Pampas Grass
Is pampas grass toxic to cats?
Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) is non-toxic to cats. It is generally considered safe, though the sharp-edged foliage poses a minor physical hazard if your cat rubs against or chews on the leaves.
What happens if my cat eats pampas grass?
Ingesting small amounts is unlikely to cause any harm. If your cat consumes a large quantity of the fibrous foliage, mild vomiting or gastrointestinal upset is possible simply due to the bulk of plant material in the digestive tract.
What should I do if my cat ate a lot of pampas grass?
Monitor your cat for persistent vomiting or signs of distress. Because pampas grass is non-toxic, a single small nibble requires no action, but if symptoms continue or your cat ate a significant amount, contact your veterinarian.
Are the feathery plumes of pampas grass safe around cats?
Yes, the plumes are non-toxic. Keep in mind that non-toxic does not mean harmless in large quantities — the sharp leaf edges can cause minor cuts, and eating substantial amounts of any fibrous grass can trigger GI upset.
Is pampas grass toxic to dogs?
Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) is non-toxic to dogs. It is generally considered safe, though its fibrous foliage can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if eaten in large amounts.
What happens if a dog eats pampas grass?
Ingesting small amounts is unlikely to cause any problem. If your dog consumes a significant quantity of the tough, fibrous foliage, mild vomiting or gastrointestinal upset is possible due to the plant material itself, not any toxic compound.
What should I do if my dog ate a lot of pampas grass?
Non-toxic does not mean harmless in large quantities — monitor your dog for vomiting or signs of GI distress. If symptoms are persistent or your dog seems uncomfortable, contact your veterinarian. For urgent concerns, you can also reach the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Are the sharp leaves of pampas grass dangerous to dogs?
The blade edges of pampas grass are notably sharp and can cause cuts to a dog's mouth, paws, or skin on contact. Physical injury from the foliage is a more realistic hazard than toxicity, so discourage dogs from chewing or running through the plant.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Areca Palm
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The Areca Palm is a popular indoor palm known for its feathery, arching fronds and air-purifying qualities. It is considered safe for households with pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if ingested in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Christmas Fern
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The Christmas Fern is a hardy, evergreen perennial native to North America, prized for its leathery, dark green fronds that remain vibrant throughout the winter months. It is considered safe for households with pets, though its fibrous texture may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Torch Lily
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Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cosmos
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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.
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