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Is Pot Marjoram toxic to cats?

Origanum onites

Toxic to cats

Yes — pot marjoram 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 Marjoram (Origanum) as toxic to dogs and cats, and the genus's 'Pot Marjoram' name is cited on its listing. The toxic principle is gastrointestinal irritants causing vomiting and diarrhea; concentrated oregano/marjoram oils are stronger irritants. Keep pets from grazing large amounts and consult a vet on significant ingestion.

What to do if your cat ate pot marjoram

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move pot marjoram 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 pot marjoram to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is pot marjoram toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is pot marjoram toxic to cats?

Yes — pot marjoram 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 Marjoram (Origanum) as toxic to dogs and cats, and the genus's 'Pot Marjoram' name is cited on its listing. The toxic principle is gastrointestinal irritants causing vomiting and diarrhea; concentrated oregano/marjoram oils are stronger irritants. Keep pets from grazing large amounts and consult a vet on significant ingestion.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats pot marjoram?

The ASPCA lists Marjoram (Origanum) as toxic to dogs and cats, and the genus's 'Pot Marjoram' name is cited on its listing. The toxic principle is gastrointestinal irritants causing vomiting and diarrhea; concentrated oregano/marjoram oils are stronger irritants. Keep pets from grazing large amounts and consult a vet on significant ingestion. 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 pot marjoram.

What should I do if my cat ate pot marjoram?

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 pot marjoram toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Pot Marjoram is toxic to dogs as well. See the full pot marjoram pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to pot marjoram?

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 pot marjoram pet-safety