No, catnip is not toxic to cats
Catnip is safe for cats and dogs in normal amounts. Its active compound, nepetalactone, makes about two-thirds of cats briefly playful or mellow. Eating a lot of the plant can cause mild vomiting or diarrhea, which the ASPCA notes.
Catnip and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Non-toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Non-toxic |
| Scientific name | Nepeta cataria |
| Also called | catmint, catswort |
| Toxic compound | None known |
| Toxic parts | Not toxic in normal amounts |
| Plant type | Herb |
What happens if a cat eats catnip?
- Vomiting or diarrhea if a cat eats a large amount
- Brief excitement or sleepiness (normal response)
Why catnip is considered safe
Catnip is not known to contain compounds that are poisonous to cats. That does not mean cats should eat it: cats cannot digest large amounts of plant fiber, so eating a lot of any plant can cause a short bout of vomiting or diarrhea.
What to do if your cat ate catnip
- Remove any remaining plant material from your cat's mouth and move the plant out of reach.
- Offer fresh water. Mild vomiting from plant fiber usually settles within a few hours.
- Check the pot: fertilizer sticks, systemic pesticides, slug bait and cocoa mulch can be more dangerous than the plant itself.
- Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than 24 hours, or if your cat seems lethargic.
When treatment is needed
Treatment is rarely needed. If vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day, or your pet seems unwell, call your vet, as something else may be going on (for example fertilizer, pesticide or a swallowed piece of pot).
How to keep your cat away from catnip
- Place catnip on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
- Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
Catnip and cats: FAQ
Is catnip poisonous to cats?
Catnip is non-toxic to cats, according to the ASPCA. Eating a lot of any plant can still cause mild stomach upset.
Can I keep catnip in a house with cats?
Yes. Catnip is considered pet-safe. Keep it where your cat cannot knock it over or dig in the soil, and avoid pesticide or fertilizer products pets could lick.
Is catnip toxic to dogs too?
No. Catnip is also non-toxic to dogs (ASPCA).
Can cats overdose on catnip?
Not in a dangerous way. Cats usually lose interest after 10-15 minutes. Eating a large amount can cause mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Is catnip safe for dogs?
Yes. Catnip is not toxic to dogs and may have a mild calming effect.
Other plants toxic to cats
- LiliesHighly toxic
- AzaleasHighly toxic
- OleanderHighly toxic
- Sago PalmsHighly toxic
- FoxgloveHighly toxic
- Lily of the ValleyHighly toxic
- YewHighly toxic
- Autumn CrocusHighly toxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Cats
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonous Plants
Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.