Pet emergency
My cat ate Large Masterwort — what to do
Step by step
- Take large masterwort away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My cat ate large masterwort — FAQ
Is large masterwort poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Large Masterwort (Astrantia maxima) as mildly toxic to cats. Astrantia maxima is not individually listed by the ASPCA. Given its Apiaceae family membership, conservative caution is warranted; no significant toxicity is documented, but it is classified as mildly toxic until more specific data is available.
How serious is it if my cat ate large masterwort?
Large Masterwort is mildly toxic, so most cats get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your cat ate a lot or symptoms persist.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Astrantia maxima is not individually listed by the ASPCA. Given its Apiaceae family membership, conservative caution is warranted; no significant toxicity is documented, but it is classified as mildly toxic until more specific data is available. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my cat vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep large masterwort well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is large masterwort toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Large Masterwort and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide