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Is Pelargonium capitatum toxic to cats?

Pelargonium capitatum

Toxic to cats

Yes — pelargonium capitatum is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. The ASPCA lists scented geranium (Pelargonium sp.) as toxic to cats and dogs. The essential oils geraniol and linalool cause vomiting, anorexia, depression and dermatitis; cats are most sensitive and may develop ataxia, muscle weakness and hypothermia after larger exposures. Keep this rose-scented species away from pets and contact a vet if ingested.

What to do if your cat ate pelargonium capitatum

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move pelargonium capitatum out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of pelargonium capitatum to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten pelargonium capitatum, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is pelargonium capitatum toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is pelargonium capitatum toxic to cats?

Yes — pelargonium capitatum is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists scented geranium (Pelargonium sp.) as toxic to cats and dogs. The essential oils geraniol and linalool cause vomiting, anorexia, depression and dermatitis; cats are most sensitive and may develop ataxia, muscle weakness and hypothermia after larger exposures. Keep this rose-scented species away from pets and contact a vet if ingested.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats pelargonium capitatum?

The ASPCA lists scented geranium (Pelargonium sp.) as toxic to cats and dogs. The essential oils geraniol and linalool cause vomiting, anorexia, depression and dermatitis; cats are most sensitive and may develop ataxia, muscle weakness and hypothermia after larger exposures. Keep this rose-scented species away from pets and contact a vet if ingested. 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 pelargonium capitatum.

What should I do if my cat ate pelargonium capitatum?

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.

Is pelargonium capitatum toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Pelargonium capitatum is toxic to dogs as well. See the full pelargonium capitatum pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to pelargonium capitatum?

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.

Full pelargonium capitatum pet-safety