Houseplant
Is Aloe vera toxic to cats and dogs?
Aloe barbadensis · also called Medicinal aloe
Cats
Mildly toxicDogs
Mildly toxicThe gel is mild, but the latex under the skin of the leaf is a strong laxative and causes vomiting and diarrhoea in pets.
By Maya Hart
If your pet chewed it
- Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and offer a drink.
- Most pets recover within a few hours; call your vet if drooling, vomiting or pawing at the mouth continues.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy
What is harmful
- Parts
- Leaf latex (the yellow layer under the skin)
- Substance
- Saponins and anthraquinones
Pet-safe alternatives
Questions owners ask
Is Aloe vera toxic to cats?
Yes — mildly toxic to cats. Harmful parts: leaf latex (the yellow layer under the skin).
Is Aloe vera toxic to dogs?
Yes — mildly toxic to dogs. Harmful parts: leaf latex (the yellow layer under the skin).
What happens if a pet eats aloe vera?
vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy.
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and offer a drink. Most pets recover within a few hours; call your vet if drooling, vomiting or pawing at the mouth continues.
What are pet-safe alternatives to aloe vera?
Spider plant, Boston fern, Calathea (prayer plant), Areca palm, Moth orchid.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
