Is Indian Valerian toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists indian valerian 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. Valeriana jatamansi is not individually listed by the ASPCA. Valerian genus plants are generally considered non-toxic to pets in small amounts, though the strong-smelling rhizomes can act as a feline attractant and stimulant. High doses of valerenic compounds may cause mild GI upset, vomiting, or hypersalivation in dogs. Consult a vet if significant ingestion occurs. Not for internal use without professional guidance due to potential liver effects at high doses.

Valeriana jatamansi is not individually listed by the ASPCA. Valerian genus plants are generally considered non-toxic to pets in small amounts, though the strong-smelling rhizomes can act as a feline attractant and stimulant. High doses of valerenic compounds may cause mild GI upset, vomiting, or hypersalivation in dogs. Consult a vet if significant ingestion occurs. Not for internal use without professional guidance due to potential liver effects at high doses. 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 indian valerian.

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: Indian Valerian is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full indian valerian 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.