Is China aster toxic to cats?

No — china aster is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats. It is a sensible choice for a home with a cat; a curious nibble will not poison them, though no plant is meant to be eaten. Callistephus chinensis (China aster) is not listed as toxic by the ASPCA. Annual asters are generally considered non-toxic to dogs and cats; no significant toxic alkaloids or irritants have been identified in the species. Contact dermatitis from handling the foliage can occasionally occur in sensitive individuals due to sesquiterpene lactones present in Asteraceae family members, but systemic toxicity is not expected.

Yes — the ASPCA lists china aster as non-toxic to cats and dogs. A cat that chews a large amount of any foliage can still get a mild, brief stomach upset, so discourage grazing, but it will not be poisoned.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: China aster is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full china aster pet-safety guide for both species.

Reliable ASPCA non-toxic picks for a cat home include spider plant, calathea, parlor palm, peperomia, and most true ferns. Browse the best cats-safe plants list to check more before you buy.