Is Hops Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Humulus lupulus, Hop Vine, Common Hops · Humulus lupulus
What makes it toxic
Resin compounds and terpenes (humulone, lupulone, myrcene) that in susceptible animals trigger malignant hyperthermia — a runaway rise in body temperature.
Warning signs to watch for
Restlessness, panting, drooling, vomiting, elevated body temperature and agitation, progressing to tremors and seizures in severe cases.
What to do if your cat eats it
Remove plant material and call your vet — for spent brewer’s hops of any amount, go to an ER immediately. Cooling and IV support started early save lives.
Common questions
Is the danger mostly for dogs, or cats too?
The dramatic hyperthermia cases are documented in dogs, but cats share the vulnerability and their small size leaves less margin. Treat any hops ingestion in a cat as urgent.
Why are spent brewing hops worse than the fresh vine?
Concentrated, moist and aromatic — pets find them appetizing, and the resin load per mouthful is far higher than leafy vine tissue.
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.