What should I do if my cat ate Lemon Grass?

Move the cat away from the plant and gently wipe out any plant matter from the mouth. If essential oil contacted the fur or skin, wash with a mild dish soap to prevent further absorption through grooming. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian or poison control. Call a vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) if your cat was exposed to lemongrass essential oil, vomits more than once or twice, refuses food for more than a day, or shows lethargy, breathing changes, or signs of obstruction.

What should I do if my dog ate Lemon Grass?

Take the plant away and rinse the mouth with water to remove residue. If essential oil got on the coat, bathe with a mild dish soap to limit absorption. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian or poison control. Call a vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) if your dog ingested lemongrass essential oil, ate a large quantity of leaves, or shows ongoing vomiting, lethargy, or signs of an intestinal obstruction (straining, abdominal pain, repeated unproductive vomiting).

Lemon Grass — no rights reserved, uploaded by S.MORE — Photo by no rights reserved, uploaded by S.MOREiNaturalistCC0

Photo by no rights reserved, uploaded by S.MOREiNaturalistCC0

Pet safety reference

Lemon Grass

Q: Is Lemon Grass safe for cats?

Lemon Grass is potentially toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause physical irritation due to the sharp, fibrous nature of the leaves and chemical irritation from essential oils. Please contact your veterinarian if your cat has ingested this plant.

Q: Is Lemon Grass safe for dogs?

Lemon Grass is potentially toxic to dogs. The fibrous leaves can be difficult to digest and may cause mechanical irritation, while the oils may cause stomach upset. Always consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has consumed a significant amount.

Cymbopogon citratus

Lemon grass is a tropical perennial grass widely used for culinary and medicinal purposes, known for its distinct citrus scent. It contains essential oils that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.

Check a list

Citronella GrassCymbopogon citratusLemon Grass

Light: Full sun
Habit: Clumping grass
Care: Moderate

Safety status

Cats & Dogs

Potentially toxic

Consulted 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

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

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

Gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and potential irritation of the mouth or throat.

Escalation note

Ingestion can cause physical irritation due to the sharp, fibrous nature of the leaves and chemical irritation from essential oils. Please contact your veterinarian if your cat has ingested this plant.

Dogs — concern notes

Common signs

Vomiting, diarrhea, and signs of gastrointestinal distress.

Escalation note

The fibrous leaves can be difficult to digest and may cause mechanical irritation, while the oils may cause stomach upset. Always consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has consumed a significant amount.

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

Open source

Lemon grass contains essential oils and chemical components that can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats and dogs.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Cymbopogon citratus is a tender perennial grass often grown as an annual in cooler climates.

cats safety page My cat ate Lemon Grass dogs safety page My dog ate Lemon Grass

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