Pet emergency
My cat ate Geranium sanguineum 'Max Frei' — what to do
Step by step
- Take geranium sanguineum 'max frei' 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 geranium sanguineum 'max frei' — FAQ
Is geranium sanguineum 'max frei' poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Geranium sanguineum 'Max Frei' (Geranium sanguineum 'Max Frei') as mildly toxic to cats. The ASPCA toxic 'Geranium' / 'Scented Geranium' listings apply to Pelargonium (geraniol and linalool), not to true cranesbills. Geranium sanguineum is not individually listed by the ASPCA; hardy geraniums are broadly considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, but without a specific ASPCA non-toxic listing 'Max Frei' is rated mildly-toxic as a precaution. Verify with a vet and prevent pets from grazing the foliage.
How serious is it if my cat ate geranium sanguineum 'max frei'?
Geranium sanguineum 'Max Frei' 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. The ASPCA toxic 'Geranium' / 'Scented Geranium' listings apply to Pelargonium (geraniol and linalool), not to true cranesbills. Geranium sanguineum is not individually listed by the ASPCA; hardy geraniums are broadly considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, but without a specific ASPCA non-toxic listing 'Max Frei' is rated mildly-toxic as a precaution. Verify with a vet and prevent pets from grazing the foliage. 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 geranium sanguineum 'max frei' well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is geranium sanguineum 'max frei' toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Geranium sanguineum 'Max Frei' and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide