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Spearmint
Mentha spicata
Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is mildly toxic to cats, sharing the same toxicity profile as other Mentha species. It contains carvone and related monoterpenoid compounds that cats cannot efficiently metabolise due to limited hepatic enzyme activity. While fresh leaf nibbling rarely causes serious harm, essential oil forms are significantly more concentrated and dangerous.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: carvone, limonene, and related monoterpenoids; concentration is highest in the essential oil
Mechanism: limited feline glucuronidation of monoterpenes leads to GI irritation and mild liver stress with repeated exposure
Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy; usually mild and self-limiting with leaf exposure
Spearmint essential oil is far more dangerous than the fresh plant — do not use on or near cats
Contact your vet if your cat ingests large amounts or shows persistent symptoms
Potentially Toxic Parts
Leaf
Entire Plant
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Lethargy, weakness, uncoordinated gait (ataxia), tremors, and seizures
Neurological
Liver damage or liver failure
Hepatic
Difficulty breathing, coughing, and sneezing
Respiratory
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and general upset stomach
Gastrointestinal
Skin irritation, redness, or burns on the lips, gums, tongue, or skin
Dermal
Excessive drooling (hypersalivation) and difficulty swallowing
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.