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Pet safety

Is Hibiscus toxic to cats?

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Non-toxic to cats

No — hibiscus 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. ASPCA lists Hibiscus rosa-sinensis as non-toxic to dogs and cats, though it lists rose-of-Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) as toxic to dogs. Identify the species before relying on safety.

Is hibiscus toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is hibiscus toxic to cats?

No — hibiscus 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. ASPCA lists Hibiscus rosa-sinensis as non-toxic to dogs and cats, though it lists rose-of-Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) as toxic to dogs. Identify the species before relying on safety.

Is hibiscus safe for cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists hibiscus 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 hibiscus toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Hibiscus is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full hibiscus 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 hibiscus pet-safety