Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Is Geranium toxic to cats and dogs?

Toxic to cats and dogs. Geranium contains geraniol and linalool (essential oils).

Geranium — Pelargonium x hortorum
This guide is aboutGeranium Pelargonium x hortorumToxic to petsGeranium care guide →
Toxic to cats and dogsCatsDogs

Geranium Pelargonium x hortorum

Geraniol and linalool (essential oils) · ASPCA

What to do if your pet ate it

If you think your cat or dog ate any part of Geranium, act quickly. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

  1. Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
  2. Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
  3. Have the plant’s name or a photo, roughly how much, and when it happened ready when you call.

Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.

Symptoms

In cats and dogs, contact or ingestion can cause:

  • Oral irritation and burning sensation
  • Excessive drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing

Non-toxic plants for the same spot and light

Non-toxic plants that suit the same spot:

Donkey’s tailSedum morganianumBright / direct lightPet-safePonytail palmBeaucarnea recurvataBright / direct lightPet-safeNorfolk Island pineAraucaria heterophyllaBright / direct lightPet-safeRosemaryRosmarinus officinalisBright / direct lightPet-safe

Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.

All Geranium guides

Related plants

Same genus or the same care pattern.

Ivy geranium: Pet toxicityPelargonium peltatumToxic to petsPeace lilySpathiphyllum wallisiiToxic to petsBird of paradiseStrelitzia reginaeSame light and wateringToxic to petsAnthuriumAnthurium andraeanumToxic to pets

Frequently asked questions

Is Geranium toxic to cats?

Yes, Geranium, which contains geraniol and linalool (essential oils), is toxic to cats. If your cat chews or ingests any part of the plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center right away. Symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, and oral irritation.

Is Geranium toxic to dogs?

Yes, Geranium is toxic to dogs. Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats any part of it. Do not wait for symptoms.

What should I do if my cat ate Geranium?

Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (24/7). Try to bring a piece of the plant or a photo so the vet can identify the species. Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.

Can I keep Geranium with pets?

Geranium is toxic to cats and dogs, so it is best kept out of reach: ideally in a room your pets cannot access, or replaced with a non-toxic alternative. See the pet-safe alternatives listed on this page.

ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: 2026-09-01