Pet emergency
My cat ate Neglected Pink — what to do
Step by step
- Take neglected pink 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 neglected pink — FAQ
Is neglected pink poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Neglected Pink (Dianthus pavonius) as toxic to cats. ASPCA lists Dianthus (Pinks) as toxic to both dogs and cats. Toxic principle is an unknown irritant; clinical signs include mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea) and mild dermatitis. Contact ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) if ingestion is suspected.
How serious is it if my cat ate neglected pink?
Neglected Pink 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 lists Dianthus (Pinks) as toxic to both dogs and cats. Toxic principle is an unknown irritant; clinical signs include mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea) and mild dermatitis. Contact ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) if ingestion is suspected. 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 neglected pink well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is neglected pink toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Neglected Pink and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide