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Is Rose-Scented Geranium toxic to cats?

Pelargonium graveolens

Toxic to cats

Yes — rose-scented geranium 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. ASPCA lists Geranium / Scented Geranium (Pelargonium species) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses; the toxic principles are geraniol and linalool. Signs include vomiting, anorexia, depression and dermatitis, with cats most sensitive. Keep this plant out of reach of pets.

What to do if your cat ate rose-scented geranium

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move rose-scented geranium 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 rose-scented geranium to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is rose-scented geranium toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is rose-scented geranium toxic to cats?

Yes — rose-scented geranium is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Geranium / Scented Geranium (Pelargonium species) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses; the toxic principles are geraniol and linalool. Signs include vomiting, anorexia, depression and dermatitis, with cats most sensitive. Keep this plant out of reach of pets.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats rose-scented geranium?

ASPCA lists Geranium / Scented Geranium (Pelargonium species) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses; the toxic principles are geraniol and linalool. Signs include vomiting, anorexia, depression and dermatitis, with cats most sensitive. Keep this 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 rose-scented geranium.

What should I do if my cat ate rose-scented geranium?

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 rose-scented geranium toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Rose-Scented Geranium is toxic to dogs as well. See the full rose-scented geranium pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to rose-scented geranium?

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 rose-scented geranium pet-safety