Is Aloe Vera Toxic to Cats or Dogs?
Aloe barbadensis miller
Short answer
Yes. The referenced veterinary poison resources list Aloe Vera as toxic to both cats and dogs. Latex layer beneath the skin. Contains saponins and anthraquinones.
Toxic Parts
Latex layer beneath the skin. Contains saponins and anthraquinones.
Symptoms if Ingested
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Tremors (in severe cases)
- Change in urine color
What to Do Immediately
- 1Move the pet away from the plant and remove loose plant material from the mouth only if this can be done safely
- 2Do not induce vomiting or give food, milk, medication, or another home remedy unless a veterinarian or animal poison-control professional directs you to do so
- 3Identify the plant and note the approximate amount and time of exposure
- 4Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service promptly for advice tailored to the animal and exposure
- 5Seek emergency veterinary care now if breathing or swallowing is difficult, symptoms are severe, or the pet collapses or has a seizure
Emergency Contact
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
The ASPCA number is a United States service and a consultation fee may apply. Outside the U.S., contact a local veterinarian or animal poison-control service. If your pet has ingested any plant material, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Lower-risk alternatives
These alternatives are listed as non-toxic by the referenced source, but no houseplant should be treated as edible or completely risk-free.
For growing advice, see the Aloe Vera care guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aloe Vera toxic to cats?
Yes. The referenced veterinary poison resources list Aloe Vera as toxic to cats. Latex layer beneath the skin. Contains saponins and anthraquinones. Possible signs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy.
Is Aloe Vera toxic to dogs?
Yes. The referenced veterinary poison resources list Aloe Vera as toxic to dogs. Latex layer beneath the skin. Contains saponins and anthraquinones. Possible signs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy.
What should I do if my pet chews Aloe Vera?
Move the pet away from the plant and remove loose plant material from the mouth only if this can be done safely Do not induce vomiting or give food, milk, medication, or another home remedy unless a veterinarian or animal poison-control professional directs you to do so Identify the plant and note the approximate amount and time of exposure Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service promptly for advice tailored to the animal and exposure Seek emergency veterinary care now if breathing or swallowing is difficult, symptoms are severe, or the pet collapses or has a seizure
Sources and review
Content last reviewed: September 4, 2026
Toxicity information referenced from ASPCA and other publicly available pet safety databases. Always consult your veterinarian if your pet has ingested plant material.