Is Mint Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Yes, mint is considered toxic to cats and dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) includes mint in its list of plants that are toxic to pets because of the essential oils it contains.
While a very small piece of a mint leaf is unlikely to cause a problem, consuming the plant in large quantities can lead to gastrointestinal upset. The risk is primarily associated with ingesting a significant amount of the plant material, not just a casual sniff.
Mint: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Mint |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Garden Mint |
| Scientific name | Mentha sp. |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Essential Oils |
| Clinical signs listed | Vomiting and diarrhea with large ingestions |
What the ASPCA lists for mint
The ASPCA plant database identifies plants in the Mentha species, commonly known as mint or garden mint, as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic components are the plant’s essential oils. According to the database, ingesting a large amount of mint can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
This toxicity applies to the plant itself. It is important to remember that concentrated mint essential oils are much more dangerous and should always be kept securely away from pets. Many commercial products for people contain mint flavorings or extracts, so it is always wise to read ingredient labels before sharing any human food.
What this means in a home with pets
Having a mint plant in your home or garden requires careful management if you also have cats or dogs. A curious pet might nibble on the leaves. While a single tiny bite may not cause a reaction, repeated or significant chewing on the plant could lead to the vomiting and diarrhea noted by the ASPCA. Every pet is different, and some may have more sensitive digestive systems than others.
Supervision is key. Pets, especially younger ones, often explore the world with their mouths. An unsupervised dog or cat with access to a mint plant could eat enough to become sick. The strong scent of mint might attract some animals, while others may ignore it completely.
Keeping cats and dogs and this plant apart
The safest approach is to prevent your pets from accessing mint plants. This ensures they cannot ingest a large enough quantity to cause illness.
- Place mint plants in areas your pets cannot reach. This could mean putting them on high shelves, in a separate room with a closed door, or in a part of the garden that is fenced off from your pets.
- If you grow mint outdoors, supervise your dog when it is in the garden to prevent chewing on the plant.
- For indoor cats who like to chew on greenery, consider growing cat-safe alternatives like cat grass to redirect their attention.
- If you bring freshly cut mint into your home for cooking, do not leave it on counters or tables where a pet could easily eat it.
When to call your vet
If your pet chewed or ate part of this plant, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line. Note which plant and which part, how much may be gone and when, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
If you know or suspect your pet has eaten a large amount of a mint plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. Be prepared to tell them what your pet ate, how much you think they ate, and when it happened. Do not attempt to induce vomiting or give any home remedies unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.
Emergency signs: go now
- Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
- Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
- Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
- Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
- Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear
Book an appointment soon
- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
- Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
- Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.
Sources
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.