No, catnip is not toxic to dogs
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 dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Non-toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | 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 dog 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 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 catnip
- 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 catnip
- Place catnip 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.
Catnip and dogs: FAQ
Is catnip poisonous to dogs?
Catnip is non-toxic to dogs, according to the ASPCA. Eating a lot of any plant can still cause mild stomach upset.
Can I keep catnip in a house with dogs?
Yes. Catnip 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 catnip toxic to cats too?
No. Catnip is also non-toxic to cats (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 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.