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
Pet safety reference
Catnip
Nepeta cataria
Catnip is a member of the mint family known for its stimulating effects on many cats, though ingestion of large quantities can cause gastrointestinal distress. It is generally considered safe for dogs, though it is not a standard part of their diet.
CatmintCatswortField BalmNepeta cataria
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Herbaceous perennial
- Care
- Low
Safety status
Dogs
UncertainIdentity or evidence quality is not strong enough for a firm answer.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
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 general gastrointestinal upset.
Escalation note
While often used as an enrichment herb, excessive ingestion can lead to digestive irritation. Contact your veterinarian if your cat exhibits persistent vomiting or lethargy.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None typically reported; potential mild stomach upset if consumed in very large quantities.
Escalation note
Catnip is not considered toxic to dogs, though it is not intended for canine consumption. Monitor for mild digestive upset if a large amount is ingested and consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Catnip is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA due to potential gastrointestinal effects.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Nepeta cataria is a perennial herb in the Lamiaceae family, widely recognized for its effects on felines.
Questions about Catnip
Is catnip toxic to cats?
Catnip is classified as potentially toxic for cats — not because the typical euphoric reaction is dangerous, but because ingesting large quantities can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and general gastrointestinal upset. The behavioral effects (rolling, rubbing, vocalizing) are normal and self-limiting, fading within 10–15 minutes.
What happens if a cat eats too much catnip?
Overconsumption can cause vomiting, diarrhea, unusual sedation or — in some cats — hyperactivity and aggression, and occasional drooling. GI signs are usually mild and resolve within a few hours on their own.
What should I do if my cat ate a large amount of catnip?
Monitor your cat closely. If vomiting or diarrhea is persistent, your cat seems unusually lethargic for more than a few hours after the high has worn off, or you suspect a very large ingestion (such as a chewed-open bag of dried catnip), call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.
How long do catnip's effects last in cats?
Behavioral effects typically begin within minutes of exposure and fade within 10–15 minutes. GI signs from overconsumption are short-lived as well, usually resolving over a few hours. After the behavioral response ends, most cats become temporarily immune to catnip for roughly 30 minutes before they can respond again.
Is catnip toxic to dogs?
Catnip is not considered toxic to dogs. Unlike cats, dogs don't experience the stimulating behavioral effects, but the plant itself poses no known poisoning risk.
What happens if my dog eats catnip?
Most dogs show no symptoms at all after eating catnip. If a dog consumes a very large quantity, mild stomach upset is possible, but serious symptoms are not typically reported.
What should I do if my dog ate a lot of catnip?
Monitor your dog for signs of digestive upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If symptoms persist or your dog ate an unusually large amount, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Does catnip affect dogs the same way it affects cats?
No. The euphoric, stimulating response cats have to catnip does not occur in dogs. Dogs lack the neurological response that makes catnip appealing or activating for cats, so ingestion is generally a non-event beyond possible mild GI upset.
Same safety verdict
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Asiatic Lily
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Daylily
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Potentially toxic for cats.
Uncertain for dogs.
Easter Lily
Lilium longiflorum
The Easter Lily is a bulbous perennial known for its large, fragrant, trumpet-shaped white flowers. It is highly significant in veterinary medicine due to its extreme toxicity to cats.
Potentially toxic for cats.
Uncertain for dogs.
Same growing conditions
