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Mexican Mint
Indian borage
Mexican Mint (Plectranthus amboinicus), also called Indian Borage or Cuban Oregano, is an aromatic succulent herb that is mildly toxic to cats. It contains pungent essential oils — primarily carvacrol, thymol, and camphor-related compounds — that act as GI irritants in cats and cannot be efficiently metabolised by their livers.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: carvacrol, thymol, and camphor-related volatile oils throughout the plant
Mechanism: these terpenoid oils irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa directly and may cause mild liver stress with repeated exposure
Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy; symptoms are generally mild and self-limiting
The strong aroma may deter most cats, but some find the scent attractive
Contact your vet if symptoms persist or if large amounts were consumed
Potentially Toxic Parts
Stem
Entire Plant
Leaf
Flower
Root
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Lethargy or weakness
Neurological
Difficulty breathing
Respiratory
Vomiting
Gastrointestinal
Diarrhea
Gastrointestinal
Loss of appetite
Gastrointestinal
Drooling (excessive salivation) or foaming at the mouth
Gastrointestinal
Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.