Plant toxicology for cats

Is Rhubarb Leaves toxic to cats?

Rheum rhabarbarum · Polygonaceae

Verdict: Is Rhubarb Leaves toxic to cats?

Yes — Rhubarb Leaves is toxic to cats. Rhubarb Leaves (Rheum rhabarbarum) 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?

Contact a veterinarian immediately

Do not wait for symptoms and do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional tells you to. Take a plant sample or clear photo with you.

  1. 1Contact an emergency veterinarian or pet poison service immediately.
  2. 2Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional instructs you to.
  3. 3Take a plant sample, label, or clear photo with you.
Open emergency help
Symptoms in cats

Possible signs after Rhubarb Leaves exposure include:

  • Vomiting
  • Drooling
  • Tremors
  • Weakness
  • Kidney damage after a large ingestion

Typical onset: Within a few hours

Why Rhubarb Leaves can harm a cat

Soluble oxalates in the leaf blade, which bind blood calcium

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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