Is Thyme Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Common Thyme, Garden Thyme, Thymus vulgaris · Thymus vulgaris
What makes it toxic
Essential oils (thymol and carvacrol) that irritate the gut when eaten in quantity. The concentration in a few leaves is too low for real harm.
Warning signs to watch for
Mild vomiting, diarrhea and possible drooling within a few hours. Signs pass quickly once the plant is out of reach.
What to do if your cat eats it
Move the plant, offer water and monitor. Call your vet only if vomiting or diarrhea persists beyond a day or the cat refuses food.
Common questions
Is creeping thyme as safe as common thyme?
Creeping thyme varieties carry the same mild risk — stomach upset at most. They are among the safer groundcovers for cat households.
My cat ate a whole sprig — do I need the vet?
Probably not. Expect at most some vomiting or soft stool. Call your vet only if signs last more than a day or the cat becomes lethargic.
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.