Is Comfrey Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Knitbone, Boneset, Symphytum officinale · Symphytum officinale
What makes it toxic
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (symphytine and relatives) in leaves and roots, which irritate the gut acutely and cause cumulative, potentially serious liver injury with repeated intake.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting, diarrhea and drooling after eating leaves or roots. Chronic exposure can lead to weight loss, jaundice and lethargy from liver damage.
What to do if your cat eats it
Remove plant material, offer water and call your vet after a meaningful meal. Block all future access — comfrey injury is cumulative, so repeat grazing is the dangerous pattern.
Common questions
Comfrey salve is sold for humans — is a lick dangerous?
A single lick of a topical salve is low risk but not zero, since the alkaloids absorb too. Do not apply comfrey products to cats at all — they groom everything off their skin.
Is comfrey tea that I drink a risk to my cat?
Only through sharing. A lap-lick of your cup is unlikely to harm, but never offer it deliberately.
More plants checked for cats
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.