Is Geranium (pelargonium) Toxic to Cats?

Pelargonium species

Pelargoniums contain geraniol and linalool, the same compounds found in rose geranium oil. Eating the leaves causes vomiting, drooling and a sore mouth, and some cats develop contact dermatitis.

They are among the most common UK garden plants, so exposure is frequent but usually minor. The essential oil is the concentrated hazard.

Which parts are dangerous

• leaves
• flowers
• essential oil

What to watch for in the UK

• Window boxes, pots and hanging baskets across the UK.
• Rose geranium oil is used in pet products — it is not safe to apply to a cat.
• Overwintered on windowsills where cats sit.
• Fallen leaves and petals are the usual nibble.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Usually nothing beyond watching for vomiting.
2. Phone your vet if the cat is in distress or an oil was involved.
3. Wash oil off the coat if you can do it safely.

Take a photo of the plant, and a cutting if you can do it safely — identification is half of the vet's decision. Out of hours, use your practice's emergency number. This page explains risk; it cannot diagnose your cat and it contains no home treatments.

If your cat has vomited after eating a plant, see the cat vomiting guide and, if there is blood, vomiting blood. For a general red-flag checklist, use sick cat symptoms. If the worry is food rather than a plant, the can cats eat guide covers 36 everyday foods.

Related plants

Browse the full UK plant checklist (72 plants).