Pet emergency
My cat ate Black Mission Fig — what to do
Step by step
- Take black mission fig 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 black mission fig — FAQ
Is black mission fig poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Black Mission Fig (Ficus carica) as toxic to cats. Ficus carica is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats. The milky latex present in the leaves, stems, and unripe fruit causes contact dermatitis, oral irritation, and GI upset. All Ficus cultivars, including Black Mission, should be treated as pet hazards.
How serious is it if my cat ate black mission fig?
Black Mission Fig is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Ficus carica is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats. The milky latex present in the leaves, stems, and unripe fruit causes contact dermatitis, oral irritation, and GI upset. All Ficus cultivars, including Black Mission, should be treated as pet hazards. 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 black mission fig well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is black mission fig toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Black Mission Fig and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide