Is Aloe Vera 'Chinese' toxic to cats?

Yes — aloe vera 'chinese' is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists Aloe vera as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principles are saponins and anthraquinones in the leaf latex; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, anorexia and tremors. The clear inner gel is far less of a concern than the yellow latex just under the skin.

The ASPCA lists Aloe vera as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principles are saponins and anthraquinones in the leaf latex; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, anorexia and tremors. The clear inner gel is far less of a concern than the yellow latex just under the skin. 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 aloe vera 'chinese'.

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: Aloe Vera 'Chinese' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full aloe vera 'chinese' 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.