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Is Watermint toxic to cats?

Mentha aquatica

Toxic to cats

Yes — watermint 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 mint (Mentha species) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses; the toxic principle is essential oils, with vomiting and diarrhoea following large ingestions. As a Mentha species, watermint should be treated as toxic and kept away from pets that graze.

What to do if your cat ate watermint

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

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

Is watermint toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is watermint toxic to cats?

Yes — watermint 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 mint (Mentha species) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses; the toxic principle is essential oils, with vomiting and diarrhoea following large ingestions. As a Mentha species, watermint should be treated as toxic and kept away from pets that graze.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats watermint?

The ASPCA lists mint (Mentha species) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses; the toxic principle is essential oils, with vomiting and diarrhoea following large ingestions. As a Mentha species, watermint should be treated as toxic and kept away from pets that graze. 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 watermint.

What should I do if my cat ate watermint?

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 watermint toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to watermint?

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 watermint pet-safety