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If your cat ate pelargonium 'happy thought' — 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.

Pelargonium 'Happy Thought' is toxic to cats (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My cat ate Pelargonium 'Happy Thought' — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take pelargonium 'happy thought' 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 pelargonium 'happy thought' — FAQ

Is pelargonium 'happy thought' poisonous to cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Pelargonium 'Happy Thought' (Pelargonium 'Happy Thought') as toxic to cats. The ASPCA classifies Geranium (Pelargonium) as toxic to cats and dogs, with geraniol and linalool as the toxic principles. Signs of ingestion include vomiting, anorexia, depression and skin dermatitis. Site out of reach of curious pets.

How serious is it if my cat ate pelargonium 'happy thought'?

Pelargonium 'Happy Thought' is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 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 Geranium (Pelargonium) as toxic to cats and dogs, with geraniol and linalool as the toxic principles. Signs of ingestion include vomiting, anorexia, depression and skin dermatitis. Site out of reach of curious 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 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 pelargonium 'happy thought' well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.

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