Pet emergency
My cat ate Black Scallop Bugle — what to do
Step by step
- Take black scallop bugle 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 scallop bugle — FAQ
Is black scallop bugle poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Black Scallop Bugle (Ajuga reptans 'Black Scallop') as mildly toxic to cats. Ajuga reptans is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but iridoid glycosides present in the genus may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in dogs and cats if consumed. Not considered severely toxic, but ingestion of large quantities should be avoided.
How serious is it if my cat ate black scallop bugle?
Black Scallop Bugle 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. Ajuga reptans is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but iridoid glycosides present in the genus may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in dogs and cats if consumed. Not considered severely toxic, but ingestion of large quantities should be avoided. 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 scallop bugle well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is black scallop bugle toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Black Scallop Bugle and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide