Pet emergency
My cat ate Physocarpus opulifolius 'Center Glow' — what to do
Step by step
- Take physocarpus opulifolius 'center glow' 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 physocarpus opulifolius 'center glow' — FAQ
Is physocarpus opulifolius 'center glow' poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Physocarpus opulifolius 'Center Glow' (Physocarpus opulifolius 'Center Glow') as mildly toxic to cats. Physocarpus opulifolius and its cultivars are not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so the status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet if a pet chews it. No significant toxicity is reported in livestock or pets, but safety cannot be asserted without an ASPCA listing.
How serious is it if my cat ate physocarpus opulifolius 'center glow'?
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Center Glow' 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. Physocarpus opulifolius and its cultivars are not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database, so the status is uncertain; treat with caution and verify with a vet if a pet chews it. No significant toxicity is reported in livestock or pets, but safety cannot be asserted without an ASPCA listing. 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 physocarpus opulifolius 'center glow' well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is physocarpus opulifolius 'center glow' toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Physocarpus opulifolius 'Center Glow' and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide