Is Pelargonium 'Lara Starshine' toxic to cats?

Yes — pelargonium 'lara starshine' 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 Pelargonium species (geranium), which includes scented-leaved pelargoniums, as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principles are geraniol and linalool, and ingestion can cause vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. Although the leaves are used to flavour culinary preparations for people, keep the plant out of reach of pets.

The ASPCA lists Pelargonium species (geranium), which includes scented-leaved pelargoniums, as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principles are geraniol and linalool, and ingestion can cause vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. Although the leaves are used to flavour culinary preparations for people, keep the plant out of reach of pets. 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 'lara starshine'.

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: Pelargonium 'Lara Starshine' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full pelargonium 'lara starshine' 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.