Pet safety
Is Courgette toxic to cats?
Cucurbita pepo 'Defender'
No — courgette 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. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Zucchini/courgette squash (Cucurbita pepo) is directly listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Eating plant material can still cause mild GI upset, and rare bitter, cucurbitacin-high fruit should be discarded; otherwise the flesh is safe in moderation. Note whole raw fruits are a choking or obstruction hazard for dogs.
Is courgette toxic to cats? — FAQ
Is courgette toxic to cats?
No — courgette 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. Zucchini/courgette squash (Cucurbita pepo) is directly listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Eating plant material can still cause mild GI upset, and rare bitter, cucurbitacin-high fruit should be discarded; otherwise the flesh is safe in moderation. Note whole raw fruits are a choking or obstruction hazard for dogs.
Is courgette safe for cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists courgette 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.
Is courgette toxic to dogs too?
The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Courgette is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full courgette pet-safety guide for both species.
What other plants are safe for cats?
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.
Full courgette pet-safety
- Is courgette toxic to cats and dogs? — the full guide for both pets
- Is courgette toxic to dogs?
- Best cats-safe plants — the full ASPCA non-toxic list
- Complete courgette care guide