Pet emergency
My cat ate Malus floribunda — what to do
Step by step
- Take malus floribunda 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 malus floribunda — FAQ
Is malus floribunda poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Malus floribunda (Malus floribunda) as toxic to cats. The ASPCA classifies Malus (apple and crabapple) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Cyanogenic glycosides in the leaves, stems and seeds release cyanide; signs include brick-red gums, dilated pupils, breathing difficulty, panting and shock. Keep prunings, foliage and fruit seeds away from pets and grazing animals.
How serious is it if my cat ate malus floribunda?
Malus floribunda 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. The ASPCA classifies Malus (apple and crabapple) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. Cyanogenic glycosides in the leaves, stems and seeds release cyanide; signs include brick-red gums, dilated pupils, breathing difficulty, panting and shock. Keep prunings, foliage and fruit seeds away from pets and grazing animals. 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 malus floribunda well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is malus floribunda toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Malus floribunda and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide