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.
cat safety reference
Is Lovage safe for cats?
Levisticum officinale
Lovage is a tall, perennial herb in the Apiaceae family often grown for its culinary uses, but it contains compounds that can cause adverse reactions in pets. It is best kept out of reach of curious cats and dogs.
Garden LovageLevisticum officinaleLovage
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Upright, herbaceous perennial
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats should not graze on lovage. The ASPCA lists it as toxic to cats due to volatile oils — particularly phthalide lactones — which can irritate the skin and stomach. Most exposures cause mild signs rather than emergencies, but cats are more sensitive to plant essential oils than dogs.
What to watch for
Skin redness or irritation where the plant brushed against fur or bare skin, mild vomiting or drooling, and reduced appetite. Cats that have rubbed against or chewed leaves may also paw at their face from the bitter taste.
Time window
GI and skin reactions typically begin within hours of contact; the ASPCA does not publish a specific recovery window for lovage in cats.
When to call the vet
Call your vet if vomiting persists for more than half a day, skin irritation spreads or blisters, or your cat skips the next meal entirely.
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
Dermatitis, photosensitivity, and potential gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
Escalation note
While typically mild, ingestion can cause skin irritation or sensitivity to sunlight. Please contact your veterinarian if your cat has consumed this plant.
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
Questions about Lovage
Is lovage toxic to cats?
Yes, lovage (Levisticum officinale) is considered potentially toxic to cats. It contains compounds that can cause dermatitis, photosensitivity, and gastrointestinal upset if ingested or if the plant contacts skin.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating or touching lovage?
Watch for skin redness or irritation where the plant brushed against fur or bare skin, mild vomiting or drooling, and reduced appetite. Cats that chew the leaves may paw at their face from the bitter taste, and skin exposed to lovage can become abnormally sensitive to sunlight.
What should I do if my cat ate lovage?
Remove your cat from the plant and check for skin irritation or redness. GI and skin reactions typically begin within hours of contact. Call your vet if vomiting persists for more than half a day, skin irritation spreads or blisters, or your cat skips their next meal — you can also reach the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
How does lovage cause skin problems in cats?
Lovage belongs to the Apiaceae family and contains compounds associated with dermatitis and photosensitivity — meaning skin that contacts the plant can become irritated and more susceptible to sunburn or UV damage. Severity is typically mild, but reactions can worsen with sun exposure after contact.
Same cat verdict
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