Plant toxicology for cats

Is English Ivy toxic to cats?

Hedera helix · Araliaceae

Verdict: Is English Ivy toxic to cats?

Yes — English Ivy is toxic to cats. English Ivy (Hedera helix) can make a cat ill. Risk depends on the amount, plant part, body size and the individual animal.

Risk for my pets

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What should I do now?

Call your veterinarian or a pet poison service

Remove plant material from the mouth, offer a small amount of water, and contact a veterinary professional. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed.

  1. 1Remove plant material from your pet’s mouth and offer a small amount of water.
  2. 2Call your veterinarian or a pet poison service for advice.
  3. 3Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional instructs you to.
Open emergency help
Symptoms in cats

Possible signs after English Ivy exposure include:

  • Drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Abdominal pain

Typical onset: Within a few hours

Why English Ivy can harm a cat

Triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin), highest in the leaves rather than the berries

24-hour poison help
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center(888) 426-443524/7. A consultation fee applies. Pet Poison Helpline(855) 764-766124/7. A per-incident fee applies.

Veterinary sources

Reviewed by Dr. Patti McCartney, Animal Naturopathic Doctor. This educational guide supports, but does not replace, diagnosis or treatment from a licensed veterinarian. Risk varies by dose, plant part, body size and health history.

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