Can cats eat mint?
ASPCA lists mint as toxic to cats: its essential oils can cause vomiting and diarrhea when cats eat larger amounts. Cats Protection advises caution with mint.
Good to know: Peppermint oil is a bigger concern: Pet Poison Helpline lists it among the essential oils known to poison cats. Catnip is a different plant.
Better choices, for example
Sources
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-toxic Plants – Mint (toxic to dogs, cats and horses)
- Cats Protection – Cat-safe plants guide, „Cats, herbs and hedging“ (mint: „Caution advised“)
- Pet Poison Helpline – Essential Oils and Cats
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Toxicoses From Essential Oils in Animals
Last checked: October 2026