Pet emergency
My cat ate Clematis 'Bill MacKenzie' — what to do
Step by step
- Take clematis 'bill mackenzie' 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 clematis 'bill mackenzie' — FAQ
Is clematis 'bill mackenzie' poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Clematis 'Bill MacKenzie' (Clematis 'Bill MacKenzie') as toxic to cats. ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs and horses (genus Clematis). Contains the irritant glycoside protoanemonin; ingestion or sap contact causes salivation, vomiting and diarrhoea. Wear gloves when pruning and keep pets away from foliage and cuttings.
How serious is it if my cat ate clematis 'bill mackenzie'?
Clematis 'Bill MacKenzie' 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. ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs and horses (genus Clematis). Contains the irritant glycoside protoanemonin; ingestion or sap contact causes salivation, vomiting and diarrhoea. Wear gloves when pruning and keep pets away from foliage and cuttings. 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 clematis 'bill mackenzie' well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is clematis 'bill mackenzie' toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Clematis 'Bill MacKenzie' and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide