Pet emergency
My cat ate Chocolate Chip Bugle — what to do
Step by step
- Take chocolate chip 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 chocolate chip bugle — FAQ
Is chocolate chip bugle poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Chocolate Chip Bugle (Ajuga reptans 'Chocolate Chip') as mildly toxic to cats. Ajuga reptans is not individually assessed by the ASPCA. The genus contains iridoid glycosides which may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets if eaten. Not considered severely toxic; its small stature means accidental ingestion of significant quantity is less likely.
How serious is it if my cat ate chocolate chip bugle?
Chocolate Chip 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 assessed by the ASPCA. The genus contains iridoid glycosides which may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets if eaten. Not considered severely toxic; its small stature means accidental ingestion of significant quantity is less likely. 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 chocolate chip bugle well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is chocolate chip bugle toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Chocolate Chip Bugle and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide