Pet emergency
My cat ate Nymphoides aquatica — what to do
Step by step
- Take nymphoides aquatica 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 nymphoides aquatica — FAQ
Is nymphoides aquatica poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Nymphoides aquatica (Nymphoides aquatica) as mildly toxic to cats. Nymphoides aquatica is not individually listed by the ASPCA as toxic or non-toxic; treat with caution and verify with a vet before assuming it is pet-safe. As an aquarium plant it is rarely accessible to pets, but do not let cats or dogs eat the foliage absent confirmed safety data.
How serious is it if my cat ate nymphoides aquatica?
Nymphoides aquatica 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. Nymphoides aquatica is not individually listed by the ASPCA as toxic or non-toxic; treat with caution and verify with a vet before assuming it is pet-safe. As an aquarium plant it is rarely accessible to pets, but do not let cats or dogs eat the foliage absent confirmed safety data. 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 nymphoides aquatica well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is nymphoides aquatica toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Nymphoides aquatica and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide