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Is Syrian Oregano toxic to cats?

Origanum syriacum

Toxic to cats

Yes — syrian oregano 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. Origanum syriacum is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but its genus mate Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is classified toxic to cats and dogs due to gastrointestinal irritants in its essential oils. Treat with the same caution: keep pets from grazing it and never offer concentrated oregano oil.

What to do if your cat ate syrian oregano

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

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

Is syrian oregano toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is syrian oregano toxic to cats?

Yes — syrian oregano is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Origanum syriacum is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but its genus mate Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is classified toxic to cats and dogs due to gastrointestinal irritants in its essential oils. Treat with the same caution: keep pets from grazing it and never offer concentrated oregano oil.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats syrian oregano?

Origanum syriacum is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but its genus mate Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is classified toxic to cats and dogs due to gastrointestinal irritants in its essential oils. Treat with the same caution: keep pets from grazing it and never offer concentrated oregano oil. 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 syrian oregano.

What should I do if my cat ate syrian oregano?

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 syrian oregano toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Syrian Oregano is toxic to dogs as well. See the full syrian oregano pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to syrian oregano?

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 syrian oregano pet-safety