§ Toxic plants · Poaceae · Checked Oct 2026
Is lemon grass toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) is toxic to cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Plant Smart rates its effects Severe, level 3 of 4.
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§ 010 · Signs
What to watch for
Signs include trouble breathing, weakness and belly pain. Eaten in quantity, it can be fatal. Signs can start within hours; some take a day or more to show.
§ 020 · If it happened
What to do if your pet ate it
Call your vet or a pet poison hotline straight away, even if your pet seems fine: the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline, (855) 764-7661. Both are open 24 hours and charge a fee. Have the plant or a photo of it to hand, and don’t make your pet vomit unless a vet tells you to.
§ 040 · Questions
Questions about lemon grass and pets
Is lemon grass toxic to cats?
Yes. ASPCA lists lemon grass as toxic to cats.
Is lemon grass toxic to dogs?
Yes. ASPCA lists lemon grass as toxic to dogs.
What happens if my pet eats lemon grass?
Signs include trouble breathing, weakness and belly pain. Eaten in quantity, it can be fatal. Plant Smart rates it Severe, level 3 of 4.
What should I do if my pet ate it?
Call your vet or a pet poison hotline right away, even before signs appear: the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. Both charge a fee. Have the plant, or a photo of it, to hand.