Pet emergency
My cat ate Cosson's Germander — what to do
Step by step
- Take cosson's germander 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 the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and 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.
My cat ate cosson's germander — FAQ
Is cosson's germander poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Cosson's Germander (Teucrium cossonii) as mildly toxic to cats. Teucrium cossonii is not recorded on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database. The Teucrium genus contains neo-clerodane diterpenoids, a compound class linked to hepatotoxic effects; while documentation for this specific species is limited, it should be treated as mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Gastrointestinal upset may result from ingestion. Keep away from pets and seek veterinary guidance if consumption occurs.
How serious is it if my cat ate cosson's germander?
Cosson's Germander 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. Teucrium cossonii is not recorded on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant database. The Teucrium genus contains neo-clerodane diterpenoids, a compound class linked to hepatotoxic effects; while documentation for this specific species is limited, it should be treated as mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Gastrointestinal upset may result from ingestion. Keep away from pets and seek veterinary guidance if consumption occurs. 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 cosson's germander well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is cosson's germander toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Cosson's Germander and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide