Is Stinging Nettle Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Common Nettle, Burn Nettle, Urtica dioica · Urtica dioica
What makes it toxic
Hollow stinging hairs (trichomes) on leaves and stems that inject formic acid, histamine, acetylcholine and serotonin into whatever touches or bites them. The effect is chemical irritation, not systemic poisoning.
Warning signs to watch for
Immediate drooling, pawing at the mouth, yelping or retreating, plus red welts on skin, lip and tongue swelling and possible vomiting from the shock of the pain.
What to do if your cat eats it
Rinse the mouth and wash any contacted skin with cool water, then apply a cold compress for the sting. Call your vet if swelling interferes with breathing, or if drooling and vomiting persist for hours.
Common questions
Can stinging nettle kill a cat?
Essentially no. The reaction is intensely painful but local; the only real danger is airway swelling from a massive mouthful, which is very rare.
Why would a cat bite a nettle at all?
Curiosity — the sting follows within seconds. Cats usually learn instantly, which limits the dose they get.
Dried nettle is an herbal remedy — does that make it safe?
Drying deactivates the stinging hairs, and commercial nettle products in pet doses are used by some owners. Never let a cat chew fresh nettles.
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.