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Lemon Mint
Monarda citriodora
Lemon Mint is a fragrant herb — typically a lemon-scented variety of Mentha or Monarda — that is mildly toxic to cats. Like other mint family plants, it contains pulegone and menthol-related compounds that cats cannot safely metabolise. While nibbling a leaf rarely causes serious harm, regular exposure or consumption of concentrated forms (oils, extracts) can irritate the liver.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: pulegone, linalool, and menthol-related monoterpenoids; concentration increases toward the flowers
Mechanism: cats lack efficient hepatic metabolism for pulegone and monoterpenes, leading to GI irritation and mild hepatotoxicity at higher doses
Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy; repeated exposure may cause liver stress
Fresh plant nibbling usually causes only mild upset; essential oil or concentrated extracts pose a greater risk
Keep mint plants and oils out of reach; consult your vet if your cat ingests a large amount
Potentially Toxic Parts
Root
Stem
Leaf
Entire Plant
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Lethargy, Weakness, Uncoordinated Gait (Ataxia)
Neurological · Variable; usually accompanies gastrointestinal signs.
Coughing, Sneezing, Difficulty Breathing
Respiratory · Immediate (upon inhalation or contact).
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Nausea, Drooling (Hypersalivation)
Gastrointestinal · Clinical signs typically appear shortly after ingestion (acute).
Skin Redness, Itching, Contact Dermatitis
Dermal · Delayed (upon contact).
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.