Aloe Vera: is it toxic to cats and dogs?

Pet safety summary

ASPCA lists Aloe vera as toxic to cats and dogs because of saponins and anthraquinones. Reported signs include vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea; the ASPCA entry separately notes that the inner gel is considered edible.

This page covers Aloe vera. The safety of purified aloe gel is not the same as allowing a pet to chew the whole plant.

Cats

Cat conclusion: ASPCA Animal Poison Control identifies Aloe Vera as toxic to cats. Keep the plant out of reach and contact a veterinarian or poison-control service if exposure is suspected.

Dogs

Dog conclusion: ASPCA Animal Poison Control identifies Aloe Vera as toxic to dogs. Keep the plant out of reach and contact a veterinarian or poison-control service if exposure is suspected.

Clinical signs reported by the source

• vomiting
• lethargy
• diarrhea

What to do if your pet ate it

Remove access to the plant. Save the plant label or a clear photo, note the part and approximate amount eaten, and contact your veterinarian or a poison-control service when the source identifies a toxicity risk. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional specifically tells you to.

Evidence and identity

Scientific name used on this page: Aloe vera

Source scientific name: Aloe vera

Source notes: Saponins and anthraquinones; ASPCA notes the gel is considered edible

Source

ASPCA Animal Poison Control plant safety entry for Aloe Vera

Source reviewed for Batch 30 on August 3, 2026.

Emergency contacts

ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435

Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

If your pet is having trouble breathing, collapsing, having seizures, or otherwise appears critically ill, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.