Is Aloe Vera Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Aloe vera is mildly toxic to cats and dogs — the latex under the leaf skin causes vomiting and diarrhea. The clear gel inside is less irritating. Call a vet if vomiting persists.
Usually minor, but watch for symptoms.
Usually minor, but watch for symptoms.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is Aloe Vera?
Aloe vera is mildly toxic to cats and dogs — the latex under the leaf skin causes vomiting and diarrhea. The clear gel inside is less irritating. Call a vet if vomiting persists.
Also known as: aloe, aloe barbadensis, aloe plant, burn plant.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Vomiting and diarrhea from the latex (the yellow sap under the leaf skin)
- Lethargy and changes in urine color
- Abdominal cramping
- The clear gel inside the leaf is less irritating
🐈 In Cats
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Lethargy and reduced appetite
- Abdominal discomfort
What to Do If Ingested
- Note whether the dog chewed the leaf (latex) or just the gel.
- Watch for vomiting or diarrhea over the next several hours.
- Offer fresh water to prevent dehydration.
- Call a veterinarian if symptoms appear or a large amount was eaten.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy or weakness
- Changes in urination
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which part of aloe vera is toxic to pets?
The latex — the yellow sap found just under the leaf skin — is the toxic part. It contains anthraquinones that irritate the gut and cause vomiting and diarrhea. The clear gel inside the leaf is less irritating, but it is hard to separate the two when a pet chews the plant.
Is aloe vera gel safe for pets?
The inner clear gel is less irritating than the latex and is sometimes used topically. However, store-bought aloe products and whole leaves can contain latex, which causes vomiting and diarrhea. Do not give aloe internally to pets without veterinary guidance.
What should I do if my dog chewed an aloe leaf?
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy over the next several hours and offer fresh water. Most cases are mild, but call a veterinarian if symptoms are persistent, a large amount was eaten, or you notice changes in urination.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11