Pet emergency
My cat ate Narrowleaf gazania — what to do
Step by step
- Take narrowleaf gazania 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 narrowleaf gazania — FAQ
Is narrowleaf gazania poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Narrowleaf gazania (Gazania linearis) as mildly toxic to cats. Gazania linearis, like other Gazania species, is not individually listed by the ASPCA. The Asteraceae family can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and contact dermatitis in some pets and people. This species is classified as mildly toxic out of caution, as it has not been individually cleared as non-toxic by ASPCA.
How serious is it if my cat ate narrowleaf gazania?
Narrowleaf gazania 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. Gazania linearis, like other Gazania species, is not individually listed by the ASPCA. The Asteraceae family can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and contact dermatitis in some pets and people. This species is classified as mildly toxic out of caution, as it has not been individually cleared as non-toxic by ASPCA. 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 narrowleaf gazania well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is narrowleaf gazania toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Narrowleaf gazania and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide