Is Agave attenuata toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists agave attenuata as mildly toxic to cats — a chewing cat typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Agave attenuata is not individually listed by the ASPCA in its toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other agaves the sap contains irritant saponins and calcium oxalate that can cause drooling, mouth irritation, vomiting and loose stools if chewed, though this species lacks the spines of its relatives.

Agave attenuata is not individually listed by the ASPCA in its toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet. Like other agaves the sap contains irritant saponins and calcium oxalate that can cause drooling, mouth irritation, vomiting and loose stools if chewed, though this species lacks the spines of its relatives. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to agave attenuata.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Agave attenuata is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full agave attenuata pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.