Corsican Mint

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Difficulty breathing (Dyspnea) Rapid (if oils are inhaled or aspirated). · While less common with grazing on the plant itself, severe respiratory issues can occur if the cat aspirates vomit or is exposed to concentrated mint essential oils (which are highly toxic). Strong aromas alone can sometimes irritate a cat's respiratory tract.
2. 2
   Vomiting This is one of the primary symptoms explicitly linked to the ingestion of Corsican Mint plant material. The essential oils in the plant can relax the esophageal valve, which makes vomiting more likely.
3. 3
   Lethargy (General Weakness) Lethargy is specifically highlighted as a symptom of Corsican Mint ingestion. It indicates a systemic reaction to the toxins, potentially affecting the central nervous system.
4. 4
   Diarrhea Like other mint varieties, the essential oils act as irritants to the intestinal lining, leading to loose stools.Excessive Drooling (Hypersalivation)
5. 5
   Drooling or Foaming at the mouth Rapid (often a response to taste or mucosal irritation). · Nausea and oral irritation from the mint oils can cause the cat to drool excessively.Respiratory Difficulty (Linked to Oils)

Important notes

Corsican mint (Mentha requienii) is a very small, low-growing mint often used as ground cover, in pots, or between garden stones. Even though its leaves are tiny, it has a strong mint scent. It is not considered safe for cats, and cats should not be allowed to eat it or have frequent close contact with it. The main concern comes from natural aromatic compounds in mint, such as menthol, pulegone, and other monoterpenes. These compounds are part of what gives mint its strong fragrance and are also found in mint essential oils. Cats have a limited ability to break down and clear these plant compounds through the liver, so ingestion may increase the risk of poisoning. The small size of Corsican mint does not make it harmless; by weight, its essential oil content can be quite concentrated. If a cat chews or eats Corsican mint, possible signs include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and low energy. Extra care is needed because the leaves are small but strongly scented, and dried or crushed plant material may expose cats to more concentrated oil components. Do not let cats eat Corsican mint, and avoid planting it where a cat may chew it or lie on it often. If your cat eats it or shows any signs of illness after contact, contact a veterinarian promptly.

• Symptoms: Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy after ingestion; respiratory irritation if a cat inhales crushed leaves or essential oil.
• Essential oils are the highest risk: Concentrated mint essential oil should never be used around cats — even diffused, it can cause serious respiratory distress.
• Action: Keep the plant and any mint-derived products (oils, sprays) away from cats. Consult a vet if significant ingestion or respiratory symptoms occur.