Cats
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
cat safety reference
Is Creosote Bush safe for cats?
Larrea tridentata
The Creosote Bush is a hardy, drought-tolerant shrub native to the deserts of North America, known for its distinct resinous scent after rainfall. It is generally considered safe for pets, though its fibrous nature may cause mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
ChaparralGreasewoodLarrea tridentata
- Light
- Full Sun
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Creosote bush — listed by the ASPCA under "chaparral" — is not toxic to cats, so an outdoor cat brushing past or chewing the resinous foliage is not at risk of plant-specific poisoning. Note: this is the desert shrub Larrea tridentata, not the wood-treatment chemical "creosote," which is a different concern.
Sources: ASPCA.
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
No specific toxicity symptoms are expected, though chewing or swallowing plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.
Escalation note
This plant is listed by ASPCA as non-toxic for this pet. Monitor for digestive upset after large ingestion and contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Chaparral is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Larrea tridentata
botanical · 94% reliability
Larrea tridentata is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub native to the southwestern United States.
Questions about Creosote Bush
Is creosote bush toxic to cats?
Creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) is non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. It is not expected to cause poisoning, though like any plant material, eating it in large amounts can cause mild stomach upset.
What happens if my cat chews on creosote bush?
No specific toxicity symptoms are expected. Chewing or swallowing the fibrous plant material may cause mild digestive discomfort such as vomiting or loose stools, particularly after a large ingestion.
What should I do if my cat ate creosote bush?
Because creosote bush is non-toxic, a small nibble is unlikely to require emergency care. Monitor your cat for signs of stomach upset and contact your veterinarian if symptoms such as vomiting or lethargy persist.
Does the resin in creosote bush pose any risk to cats?
The data does not document specific toxicity from the plant's resinous compounds in cats. The ASPCA lists creosote bush as non-toxic; the main concern with any ingestion is mild GI irritation from the fibrous plant matter, not the resin itself.
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
Autumn Olive
Elaeagnus umbellata
Autumn Olive is a hardy, deciduous shrub known for its silvery foliage and edible berries. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Bottlebrush
Callistemon citrinus
Bottlebrush is a popular evergreen shrub known for its unique, spike-like flowers that resemble a cleaning brush. It is generally considered safe for pets, though its fibrous nature may cause mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Camellia
Camellia japonica
Camellia is a popular evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green leaves and showy, rose-like flowers. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Flame of the Woods
Ixora coccinea
Flame of the Woods is a popular tropical shrub known for its vibrant, dense clusters of star-shaped flowers. It is considered safe for households with pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.