Cats & 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.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Bay Laurel
Laurus nobilis
Bay Laurel is a popular culinary herb often grown as an ornamental shrub or tree. While prized for its aromatic leaves, it contains essential oils that can cause digestive distress if ingested by pets.
Bay LeafBay TreeLaurus nobilisSweet Bay
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Upright shrub or tree
- Care
- Moderate
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
Vomiting, diarrhea, and potential gastrointestinal irritation.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to physical blockage or irritation due to the rigid nature of the leaves. Please contact your veterinarian if your cat has ingested any part of this plant.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
Escalation note
The leaves are tough and can cause mechanical irritation or obstruction in the digestive tract. Always consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has consumed this plant.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Bay Laurel is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to potential gastrointestinal upset.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Laurus nobilis is an evergreen shrub or tree commonly used for culinary purposes, but it is known to be toxic to pets.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Buddhist Pine
Podocarpus macrophyllus
The Buddhist Pine is a slow-growing evergreen conifer often used as an ornamental shrub or bonsai specimen. While popular for its needle-like foliage, it contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Monstera
Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, fenestrated leaves and vining growth habit. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Dracaena trifasciata is a popular, hardy houseplant known for its stiff, sword-like leaves with striking yellow margins. It is widely appreciated for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in various indoor conditions.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Philodendron
Philodendron spp.
Philodendrons are popular tropical foliage plants known for their lush, heart-shaped or split leaves. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same growing conditions
Plants for the same room
Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata bostoniensis
The Boston Fern is a popular, lush houseplant known for its arching fronds and preference for high humidity. It is widely considered safe for pets, though ingestion of any plant material can occasionally cause minor digestive upset.
Uncertain for cats.
Generally safe for dogs.
Copperleaf
Acalypha godseffiana
Copperleaf is a tropical shrub known for its vibrant, variegated foliage. It contains compounds that can cause irritation if ingested by household pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, variegated leaves. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested or chewed.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Elephant Ear
Alocasia spp.
Alocasia is a genus of rhizomatous, broad-leaved perennial plants known for their dramatic, arrow-shaped foliage. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate irritation upon contact with soft tissues.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.