Growli
Let's go

If your cat ate common bird's-foot trefoil — 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.

Common Bird's-foot Trefoil is mildly toxic to cats (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My cat ate Common Bird's-foot Trefoil — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take common bird's-foot trefoil 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 common bird's-foot trefoil — FAQ

Is common bird's-foot trefoil poisonous to cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Common Bird's-foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) as mildly toxic to cats. Contains cyanogenic glycosides (principally lotaustralin) that release hydrogen cyanide when plant tissue is damaged; large quantities can cause vomiting, lethargy, and respiratory distress in dogs and cats. Not listed individually on the ASPCA database; classified as mildly toxic based on confirmed cyanogenic glycoside content.

How serious is it if my cat ate common bird's-foot trefoil?

Common Bird's-foot Trefoil 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. Contains cyanogenic glycosides (principally lotaustralin) that release hydrogen cyanide when plant tissue is damaged; large quantities can cause vomiting, lethargy, and respiratory distress in dogs and cats. Not listed individually on the ASPCA database; classified as mildly toxic based on confirmed cyanogenic glycoside content. 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 common bird's-foot trefoil well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.

Related