Aloe plants are toxic to cats. All parts of the plant can cause illness if ingested, including vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy, and more severe reactions are possible in some cases. If a cat has chewed or eaten aloe, contact a veterinarian promptly and monitor for symptoms. Key points
- Toxic components: aloe contains compounds such as saponins and anthraquinones that irritate the GI tract. The latex and gel can both be problematic if ingested.
- Symptoms to watch for: vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, lethargy, abdominal pain, or changes in urine color. Severe cases may involve dehydration or tremors.
- What to do now: keep aloe plants out of reach, remove any leaves or gel that a cat could access, and provide a cat-safe environment with alternative enrichment. If ingestion is suspected, call your vet or an animal poison control center right away.
- Do not induce vomiting at home unless advised by a professional, as certain substances can cause more harm if vomited.
If you’d like, share your cat’s symptoms (if any), your location, and the amount ingested (if known), and this can help determine the next steps or urgency.
