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 Catnip safe for cats?
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
What this means for your cat
Catnip is the famous one — most cats sniff or nibble it for a 5-to-15-minute high driven by nepetalactone, then lose interest. The ASPCA still lists it as toxic to cats because larger ingestions tip the response from playful into vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual sedation, but a typical exposure is mild and self-limiting.
What to watch for
Most cats show only the brief euphoric/silly behavior — rolling, rubbing, vocalizing — that fades on its own. With overconsumption, watch for vomiting and diarrhea (most common GI signs ASPCA lists), unusual sedation in some cats, or hyperactivity and aggression in others, and occasional drooling. Signs are usually mild.
Time window
Behavioral effects typically begin within minutes of exposure and fade within 10–15 minutes. GI signs from overconsumption are short-lived, usually resolving over a few hours.
When to call the vet
Call your vet (or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435) if vomiting or diarrhea is persistent, your cat seems unusually lethargic for more than a few hours after the high should have worn off, or you suspect a very large ingestion (e.g., a chewed-open bag of dried catnip).
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 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.
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
Catnip is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA due to potential gastrointestinal effects.
Same cat verdict
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