Yes, geraniums are mildly toxic to cats
Garden geraniums (Pelargonium) contain geraniol and linalool, which can cause vomiting, poor appetite and skin irritation. Cats may be more sensitive. Geranium essential oil is more concentrated and riskier.
Geraniums and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Pelargonium spp. |
| Also called | scented geranium, zonal geranium |
| Toxic compound | Geraniol and linalool |
| Toxic parts | All parts |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Flower |
Symptoms of geraniums poisoning in cats
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Depression
- Skin irritation (dermatitis)
Why geraniums are toxic to cats
These aromatic oils irritate the gut and skin. Cats can be more sensitive to plant oils because of differences in how their liver processes them.
What to do if your cat ate geraniums
- Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
- Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
- Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
- Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
- Watch for vomiting, loss of appetite, depression. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
Treatment and outlook
Supportive care for vomiting, and washing the skin if there is dermatitis.
How to keep your cat away from geraniums
- Place geraniums 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.
- In the garden, fence off beds, supervise cats that dig, and store bulbs in a closed container before planting.
Pet-safe alternatives to geraniums
If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:
- RosesNon-toxic
- SunflowersNon-toxic
- Gerbera DaisiesNon-toxic
- PetuniasNon-toxic
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- Christmas CactusNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for cats.
Geraniums and cats: FAQ
Are geraniums poisonous to cats?
Geraniums are mildly toxic to cats. Geraniol and linalool can cause vomiting and loss of appetite, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of geraniums is toxic to cats?
All parts.
Can cats die from eating geraniums?
It is very unlikely. Geraniums usually cause mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
How long after eating geraniums will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Are geraniums toxic to dogs too?
Yes, geraniums are mildly toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- CarnationsMildly toxic
- DaisiesMildly toxic
- ChrysanthemumsMildly toxic
- Baby's BreathMildly 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.