At a glance
| Plant | Rose (Rosa) |
|---|---|
| Cats | Non-toxic |
| Dogs | Non-toxic |
| ASPCA page | Rose, checked November 10, 2026 |
What else to know
The sharp bits on rose stems are prickles, not true thorns, says NC State.
Look-alikes
- Desert rose: toxic to cats, toxic to dogs (ASPCA). Adenium obesum, a succulent. ASPCA lists cardiac glycosides, with signs up to an irregular heartbeat and death.
- Christmas rose (hellebore): toxic to cats, toxic to dogs (ASPCA). Helleborus niger, also sold as Lenten rose. ASPCA lists cardiac glycosides, saponins and protoanemonin.
- Moss rose (purslane): toxic to cats, toxic to dogs (ASPCA). Portulaca oleracea. ASPCA lists soluble calcium oxalates, with tremors, drooling and, rarely, kidney failure.
Care basics
Light: Full sun.
Soil and water: Rich, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. NC State’s profile gives no watering interval. Deadhead fading blooms until late summer, and prune most roses once a year in late winter.
Source: NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Rosa.
If your pet ate some
If your pet seems unwell after eating it, call your vet, or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435. ASPCA runs the line 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and says a consultation fee may apply.
Call (888) 426-4435 · ASPCA Animal Poison Control
This page is reference information, not veterinary advice. Toxicity facts are summarized in our own words from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list; Plamp is not affiliated with the ASPCA.
