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If your cat ate common valerian — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Common Valerian is mildly toxic to cats (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My cat ate Common Valerian — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take common valerian away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. 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.

My cat ate common valerian — FAQ

Is common valerian poisonous to cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Common Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) as mildly toxic to cats. Valeriana officinalis is not listed as toxic on the ASPCA database and is generally considered non-toxic to dogs and cats. However, the valerenic acid compounds in roots and leaves have a well-documented psychoactive effect on approximately 50% of cats (causing euphoria, excitability, and potential anxiety), and large-quantity ingestion may cause mild vomiting or hypersalivation in dogs. Classified as mildly-toxic here due to these pharmacological effects rather than true toxicity; consult a veterinarian if a pet consumes the root or large amounts of the plant.

How serious is it if my cat ate common valerian?

Common Valerian is mildly toxic, so most cats get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your cat ate a lot or symptoms persist.

What symptoms should I watch for?

Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Valeriana officinalis is not listed as toxic on the ASPCA database and is generally considered non-toxic to dogs and cats. However, the valerenic acid compounds in roots and leaves have a well-documented psychoactive effect on approximately 50% of cats (causing euphoria, excitability, and potential anxiety), and large-quantity ingestion may cause mild vomiting or hypersalivation in dogs. Classified as mildly-toxic here due to these pharmacological effects rather than true toxicity; consult a veterinarian if a pet consumes the root or large amounts of the plant. 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 the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.

How do I stop this happening again?

Keep common valerian well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.

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