Is Coleus Toxic to Cats?

☠️ ToxicSeverity: Mild

✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit

⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.

Yes, coleus is mildly toxic to cats. Eating the colorful leaves or stems can cause vomiting, diarrhea and drooling.

Also known as: Painted Nettle, Flame Nettle, Plectranthus scutellarioides · Coleus scutellarioides (Plectranthus scutellarioides)

What makes it toxic

Essential oils and irritant diterpenoids in the foliage. They inflame the gastrointestinal lining; the sap can also mildly irritate skin.

Warning signs to watch for

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and mild depression within several hours of ingestion.

What to do if your cat eats it

Remove plant material, offer water and monitor. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea persists beyond a day.

Common questions

Are all the colorful coleus cultivars toxic?

Yes. The whole species — every leaf pattern and color — carries the same oils.

Is coleus the same plant used in coleus forskohlii supplements?

Related, yes. Forskohlii root products concentrate compounds far beyond what a leaf chew delivers, but neither form belongs in a cat’s reach.

More plants checked for cats

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to cats. Chewing the leaves or vines releases sharp calcium oxalate crystal Aloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to cats. The gel is famously soothing for human skin, bu Spider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to cats. They are one of the best houseplants for homes with cur Easter Lily☠️ ToxicYes — and this is one of the most dangerous plants a cat can meet. Every part of an Easter lily,Sago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to cats and among the deadliest houseplants. Every part contai Boston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to cats — a classic choice for plant-loving cat households.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.