Is Marjoram Toxic to Cats?

⚠️ Mildly 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.

Marjoram is mildly toxic to cats. Chewing the herb causes drooling, vomiting and diarrhea from its essential oils, though serious harm is unlikely.

Also known as: Sweet Marjoram, Knotted Marjoram, Origanum majorana · Origanum majorana

What makes it toxic

Essential oils including carvacrol and terpinenes that irritate the gastrointestinal lining when a meaningful amount is eaten.

Warning signs to watch for

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and mild lethargy within a few hours of eating leaves.

What to do if your cat eats it

Remove plant material, offer water and monitor. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day.

Common questions

Is marjoram the same risk as oregano?

Very similar — they are close relatives with overlapping oils. Both are mild GI irritants for cats rather than deadly plants.

My cat licked soup seasoned with marjoram — worry?

A lick or two is negligible. Creamy, salty or onion-containing soups are the bigger issue, not the herb.

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.