Is Weed killer (glyphosate) dangerous for cats?
No. Glyphosate weed killers (Roundup, Gallup, Resolva) are moderately toxic to cats, but the surfactants mixed with the active ingredient are the bigger problem. Cats walking through sprayed areas absorb through paws; licking leaves ingested product.
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Key facts
- Verdict: No — dangerous to cats. Weed killer (glyphosate) should never be given deliberately.
- Category: Chemical
- Onset: Signs can start 0–12 hours — see the full timeline below.
- If it's already happened: Call your vet now, or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, charges apply) — see the emergency steps below.
If your cat has just eaten weed killer (glyphosate)
- Move your cat away from the weed killer.
- Don't induce vomiting at home — this is dangerous in cats.
- Call your vet or out-of-hours emergency vet immediately.
- If you can't reach a vet, call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 — 24/7, charges apply.
- Note how much weed killer was eaten, when, and your cat's weight.
What's the full picture?
The glyphosate itself is relatively low-toxicity, but commercial weed killers include surfactants (POEA, polyethoxylated tallowamine) that are significantly more irritating and toxic than pure glyphosate.
Outdoor cats are most at risk — they walk across freshly-sprayed lawns or borders, absorb through skin, and groom off residue. Wait at least 48 hours after application before letting cats onto treated areas, and water the area thoroughly.
Concentrated weed killer spilled on a patio or shed floor is an acute emergency — the concentrate is much more toxic than the diluted spray.
Symptoms to watch for
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Cat owner essentials
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A bitter deterrent spray makes cables, bin lids, and cupboard edges taste unpleasant without harming your cat.
Recommended for cat owners
Related
Sources referenced for this guidance
- Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) — UK clinical toxicology reference used by vets
- International Cat Care — feline-specific clinical guidance
- BSAVA — British Small Animal Veterinary Association reference materials
- Merck Veterinary Manual — professional veterinary reference
About this guidance
Every entry on this site is compiled from published UK veterinary toxicology sources — International Cat Care, Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) references, RCVS-registered practice materials, and peer-reviewed feline medicine literature. Where the evidence is mixed, we err on the cautious side because cats are unusually sensitive to many common substances that are harmless to humans and even to dogs.
This is general information written for UK cat owners. It is not personalised veterinary advice for your specific cat, their age, weight, medical history, or the exact exposure you're dealing with. If your cat has eaten something or is unwell, call your vet first. The Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 is available 24/7 for a small fee and can tell you whether an emergency visit is needed.
Entries are reviewed and updated as new research emerges. Spotted an error? Let us know — corrections are investigated and applied within 24 hours. For more context on how we work, see about and our full disclaimer.
Last reviewed: · By the What Can My Cat Eat? editorial team