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If your cat ate black redcurrant — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Black Redcurrant is mildly toxic to cats (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My cat ate Black Redcurrant — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take black redcurrant away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. 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 redcurrant — FAQ

Is black redcurrant poisonous to cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Black Redcurrant (Ribes nigrum 'Ben Lomond') as mildly toxic to cats. Blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) is not individually listed in the ASPCA non-toxic or toxic plant database, so its status is treated as uncertain; handle with caution and verify with a vet. Note the wider grape/raisin (including dried 'Zante currant') concern is a separate, unrelated plant; true Ribes berries are generally considered low risk, but pet-safety is not ASPCA-confirmed.

How serious is it if my cat ate black redcurrant?

Black Redcurrant 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. Blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) is not individually listed in the ASPCA non-toxic or toxic plant database, so its status is treated as uncertain; handle with caution and verify with a vet. Note the wider grape/raisin (including dried 'Zante currant') concern is a separate, unrelated plant; true Ribes berries are generally considered low risk, but pet-safety is not ASPCA-confirmed. 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 redcurrant well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.

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