Pet emergency
My cat ate Ruby Necklace — what to do
Step by step
- Take ruby necklace 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 ruby necklace — FAQ
Is ruby necklace poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Ruby Necklace (Othonna capensis) as mildly toxic to cats. Othonna capensis (syn. Crassothonna capensis) is NOT individually listed in the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database, and the genus has no ASPCA-listed members to confirm it is safe. Because it belongs to the same daisy tribe (Senecioneae, Asteraceae) as Senecio species such as string of pearls, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to cats and dogs, treat it as potentially mildly toxic, keep it out of reach of pets and children, and verify with your vet before assuming it is safe. Ingestion may cause mild stomach upset such as vomiting or drooling.
How serious is it if my cat ate ruby necklace?
Ruby Necklace 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. Othonna capensis (syn. Crassothonna capensis) is NOT individually listed in the ASPCA toxic or non-toxic plant database, and the genus has no ASPCA-listed members to confirm it is safe. Because it belongs to the same daisy tribe (Senecioneae, Asteraceae) as Senecio species such as string of pearls, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to cats and dogs, treat it as potentially mildly toxic, keep it out of reach of pets and children, and verify with your vet before assuming it is safe. Ingestion may cause mild stomach upset such as vomiting or drooling. 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 ruby necklace well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is ruby necklace toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Ruby Necklace and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide