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 Dianthus safe for cats?
Dianthus spp.
Dianthus species, including the Eastern Star, are popular garden and container plants that contain compounds which can cause gastrointestinal irritation in pets. While generally considered mild, ingestion should be monitored closely.
CarnationDianthus spp.Eastern StarPinksSweet William
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Clumping or mounding
- Care
- Low to moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats that nibble Eastern Star pinks usually get a mild stomach upset, not a poisoning emergency. ASPCA lists the plant as toxic to cats with mild gastrointestinal signs and mild dermatitis as the expected outcome from an unknown irritant in the leaves.
What to watch for
In cats, expect mild vomiting, possible diarrhea, and mild skin irritation if the cat lay in or rubbed against the foliage. Loss of appetite for a meal is common; severe systemic illness is not described in the ASPCA entry.
Time window
Exact onset and duration are not specified by ASPCA; mild GI signs from low-grade plant irritants typically appear within a few hours and resolve in 12 to 24 hours with supportive care.
When to call the vet
Call your vet if vomiting continues past 24 hours, if your cat will not drink, becomes lethargic, or if a large quantity of plant material was eaten.
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
Vomiting, diarrhea, and mild gastrointestinal upset.
Escalation note
Symptoms are typically mild, but if your cat consumes a significant amount or shows persistent distress, please contact your veterinarian.
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
Dianthus species are listed as toxic to cats and dogs, causing gastrointestinal irritation.
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