Mint
Mentha sp. · Lamiaceae
How it looks
Mint is an herb with toothed oval leaves arranged opposite and square stems. Rubbing the leaves releases a strong minty scent, and small purple to white flowers gather in spikes. It reaches 12-31 in (30-80 cm) tall and spreads very quickly.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Mint contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting and diarrhea if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble of Mint usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the menthol and pulegone in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Mentha sp.
- Common name
- Mint
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Menthol, Pulegone
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Lamiaceae
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