Pet safety
Is New Guinea Impatiens toxic to cats?
Impatiens hawkeri
No — new guinea impatiens 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-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (Impatiens species are listed under 'Buzzy Lizzie'). As with any plant, ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but no specific toxic principle is identified.
Is new guinea impatiens toxic to cats? — FAQ
Is new guinea impatiens toxic to cats?
No — new guinea impatiens 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-listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs (Impatiens species are listed under 'Buzzy Lizzie'). As with any plant, ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but no specific toxic principle is identified.
Is new guinea impatiens safe for cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists new guinea impatiens 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 new guinea impatiens toxic to dogs too?
The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: New Guinea Impatiens is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full new guinea impatiens 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 new guinea impatiens pet-safety
- Is new guinea impatiens toxic to cats and dogs? — the full guide for both pets
- Is new guinea impatiens toxic to dogs?
- Best cats-safe plants — the full ASPCA non-toxic list
- Complete new guinea impatiens care guide