Pet safety › Cat safety

Is Aloe Vera toxic to cats?

Aloe barbadensis miller

YES Toxic — mild

Symptoms in cats

  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • lethargy
  • depression
  • tremors

What to do if your cat ate this plant

  1. Remove any visible plant material from your cat's mouth.
  2. Rinse the mouth gently with water if your pet allows it.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinarian.
  4. Contact your vet immediately, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (consultation fee may apply).
  5. If possible, bring a sample of the plant or a clear photo to the vet.
  6. Watch for: persistent drooling, swelling around mouth/face, trouble breathing or swallowing, or repeated vomiting — these warrant emergency care.

Why is it toxic?

Aloe Vera contains saponins, anthraquinones. When chewed, these compounds release into the mouth and digestive tract, causing irritation and the symptoms listed above.

Prevention tips

  • Place the plant in a hanging basket or on a high shelf out of cat reach.
  • Use bitter-tasting pet-safe sprays on lower leaves as a deterrent.
  • Provide your cat with their own safe greenery (cat grass for cats, pet-safe herbs for dogs).
  • Train your cat away from houseplants with positive reinforcement.

Pet-safe alternatives

If you love how Aloe Vera looks but want a cat-safe option, try one of these.

Christmas cactus with pink tubular flowers and segmented green stems

Christmas Cactus

Schlumbergera bridgesii Pet-safe
Spider plant with arching striped leaves and small plantlets

Spider Plant

Chlorophytum comosum Pet-safe
Boston fern with arching feathery green fronds in a hanging basket

Boston Fern

Nephrolepis exaltata Pet-safe

Frequently asked questions

Is Aloe Vera toxic to cats?

Yes. Aloe Vera is rated mild toxicity for cats by the ASPCA. It contains saponins, anthraquinones.

What happens if my cat eats Aloe Vera?

Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, depression, tremors.

What should I do if my cat ate this plant?

Remove any plant material from the mouth, rinse the mouth with water, and contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. Bring a sample of the plant if you can.