No, cat grass is not toxic to dogs
Cat grass is usually wheat, oat or barley grass grown indoors. It is non-toxic and gives cats a safe alternative to chewing houseplants. Some cats vomit after eating grass, which is usually normal.
Cat Grass and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Non-toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | Non-toxic |
| Scientific name | Wheat, oat, barley or rye grass (Triticum, Avena, Hordeum spp.) |
| Also called | wheatgrass, oat grass |
| Toxic compound | None known |
| Toxic parts | Not toxic |
| Plant type | Herb |
What happens if a dog eats cat grass?
- Occasional vomiting after eating grass (common and usually harmless)
Why cat grass is considered safe
Cat Grass is not known to contain compounds that are poisonous to dogs. That does not mean dogs should eat it: dogs 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 dog ate cat grass
- Remove any remaining plant material from your dog'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 dog 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 dog away from cat grass
- Place cat grass on high shelves or in hanging planters out of reach of paws and tails, or in a room your dog cannot enter.
- Give your dog something better to chew: chew toys and puzzle feeders reduce boredom chewing.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
Cat Grass and dogs: FAQ
Is cat grass poisonous to dogs?
Cat Grass is non-toxic to dogs, according to the ASPCA. Eating a lot of any plant can still cause mild stomach upset.
Can I keep cat grass in a house with dogs?
Yes. Cat Grass is considered pet-safe. Keep it where your dog cannot knock it over or dig in the soil, and avoid pesticide or fertilizer products pets could lick.
Is cat grass toxic to cats too?
No. Cat Grass is also non-toxic to cats (ASPCA).
Other plants toxic to dogs
- AzaleasHighly toxic
- OleanderHighly toxic
- Sago PalmsHighly toxic
- FoxgloveHighly toxic
- Lily of the ValleyHighly toxic
- YewHighly toxic
- Autumn CrocusHighly toxic
- DaffodilsToxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Dogs
- 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 dog's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.