Pet emergency
My cat ate Aloe Gariepensis — what to do
Step by step
- Take aloe gariepensis away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet, or a poison-control line — (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK. Both charge a consultation fee. Follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet — or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK.
My cat ate aloe gariepensis — FAQ
Is aloe gariepensis poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Aloe Gariepensis (Aloe gariepensis) as toxic to cats. The ASPCA classifies Aloe as toxic to cats and dogs. Saponins and anthraquinones in the leaf latex can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and loss of appetite if chewed by pets.
How serious is it if my cat ate aloe gariepensis?
Aloe Gariepensis is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. The ASPCA classifies Aloe as toxic to cats and dogs. Saponins and anthraquinones in the leaf latex can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy and loss of appetite if chewed by pets. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my cat vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or a poison-control specialist specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep aloe gariepensis well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Type any plant to see what the ASPCA says about it and your cat.
Related
- Is aloe gariepensis toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Aloe Gariepensis and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide
- Best plant app for pet owners — which apps actually flag ASPCA toxicity before you buy the plant