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 Sage safe for cats?
Salvia officinalis
Sage is a popular culinary and ornamental herb known for its aromatic, grey-green foliage. It is generally considered safe for household pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Common SageGarden SageSalvia officinalis
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Mounded shrub
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are not at risk from culinary Sage — ASPCA lists garden sage as non-toxic to cats. A nibble from a kitchen herb pot is not a poisoning concern.
Sources: ASPCA.
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 typically expected; however, excessive consumption of fibrous leaves may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
The plant is non-toxic, but if your cat consumes a large amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Sageis 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
Sage is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Salvia officinalis is a perennial herb in the Lamiaceae family, widely used for culinary purposes.
Questions about Sage
Is sage toxic to cats?
Sage (Salvia officinalis) is non-toxic to cats. It is classified as generally safe, meaning your cat is not at risk of poisoning from contact with or nibbling on this herb.
What happens if my cat eats sage leaves?
Most cats will experience no symptoms at all. If your cat eats a large amount of the fibrous leaves, mild vomiting or diarrhea is possible due to the bulk of plant material, not any toxic compound.
How much sage is too much for a cat?
There is no toxic dose because sage is non-toxic, but non-toxic does not mean unlimited. Large quantities of any fibrous plant material can irritate your cat's digestive tract and cause temporary GI upset, so discourage repeated or heavy grazing.
Should I call my vet if my cat ate sage and seems uncomfortable?
If your cat ate a significant amount and is vomiting repeatedly, refusing food, or seems lethargic, contact your veterinarian. A small nibble causing brief stomach upset will typically resolve on its own, but persistent or worsening signs warrant a call.
Same cat verdict
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