Is Sage Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Sage, also known as Common Sage or Garden Sage, is considered non-toxic for cats and dogs. This classification comes from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), a trusted resource for pet safety information. The plant in question is specifically Salvia officinalis, the popular culinary herb.
While this is reassuring for pet owners, the term non-toxic does not mean that a pet should be encouraged to eat large quantities of the plant. Consuming any plant material, even a safe one, can potentially lead to mild digestive upset in some animals. Responsible pet ownership includes understanding what this safety rating means in practical terms.
Sage: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Sage |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Common Sage, Garden Sage |
| Scientific name | Salvia officinalis |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Toxic to | None listed |
| Non-toxic to | Non-Toxic to Dogs, Non-Toxic to Cats, Non-Toxic to Horses |
| Toxic principles | None listed |
| Clinical signs listed | None listed |
The ASPCA listing for sage
The ASPCA maintains an extensive database of plants to help pet owners identify potential hazards. In this database, Sage (Salvia officinalis) is officially listed as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The organization provides its scientific name to avoid confusion with other plants that might share a similar common name.
A non-toxic classification means the plant does not contain substances that are known to cause poisoning or serious illness in pets. When the ASPCA evaluates a plant like Common Sage, it looks for specific toxic principles. For this particular herb, none are listed, which leads to its non-toxic status for these animals.
What this means in a home with pets
Having Sage in your home or garden is generally considered safe for households with cats and dogs. If a curious cat or dog nibbles on a leaf, it is not expected to cause a toxic reaction. This makes it a better choice for gardens compared to plants known to be dangerous to pets.
However, safety is about more than just a plant’s toxicity rating. It is always wise to discourage pets from chewing on or eating any household or garden plants. This helps prevent them from developing a habit of eating foliage, which could be risky if they encounter a toxic plant elsewhere. Supervision is a key part of keeping pets safe around any new item in their environment, including plants.
Points to consider with a non-toxic plant
Even a plant classified as non-toxic can cause problems if a pet consumes it in large amounts. The digestive systems of cats and dogs are not designed to process a lot of plant material. Eating too much of any plant, including sage, could lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Pet owners should also be aware of how the herb is used. While the fresh plant is non-toxic, sage is often used in recipes with other ingredients like onions, garlic, or rich fats, which are harmful to pets. It is essential to ensure a pet does not eat seasoned foods containing sage. Additionally, some products like essential oils can be highly concentrated and may pose different risks than the plant itself. Always read ingredient labels carefully on any food or product before sharing it with a pet.
When to call your vet
A non-toxic listing means the plant is not expected to poison pets, not that eating it is harmless. Call your vet if your pet shows any of the signs below after chewing on a plant.
If your pet eats a large amount of sage and shows signs of digestive upset, or if you are concerned for any reason, it is best to contact your veterinarian. Have the plant’s name and any packaging available. For immediate advice in a potential poisoning situation, you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. A consultation fee may apply.
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.