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 Cinquefoil safe for cats?
Potentilla spp.
Cinquefoil is a diverse genus of flowering plants in the rose family, commonly found in gardens and wild meadows. While generally considered safe for pets, it is not intended for consumption.
Five-fingerPotentillaPotentilla spp.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Clumping or spreading
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are safe around cinquefoil — the ASPCA lists Potentilla spp. (silver, shrubby, rough, sulfur, and rock cinquefoil) as non-toxic to cats with no toxic principle on file. A cat that bats at a flowering shrub in the garden and chews a leaf isn't ingesting anything poisonous.
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
None expected; however, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Non-toxic. If your cat consumes a significant amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian as a precaution.
Bring it home
Cinquefoilis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Cinquefoil is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Potentilla
botanical · 94% reliability
A large genus of herbaceous plants and shrubs in the Rosaceae family.
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus
Garden cosmos is a daisy-like annual usually treated as a pet-safe flowering option, though any large plant ingestion can still cause mild stomach upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
African Violet
Saintpaulia spp.
African Violets are popular, low-growing flowering houseplants known for their fuzzy leaves and vibrant blooms. They are considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Spider Plant
Chlorophytum comosum
The spider plant is a popular, easy-to-care-for houseplant known for its arching, grass-like foliage and trailing plantlets. It is widely considered safe for households with pets, though large ingestions of fibrous material may occasionally cause mild digestive upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Acorn Squash
Cucurbita pepo
Acorn squash is a popular edible winter squash known for its ribbed, dark green skin and sweet, yellow-orange flesh. It is widely cultivated for culinary use and is considered safe for household pets.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.