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If your cat ate spencer mixed sweet pea — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Spencer Mixed sweet pea is mildly toxic to cats (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My cat ate Spencer Mixed sweet pea — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take spencer mixed sweet pea away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. 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 spencer mixed sweet pea — FAQ

Is spencer mixed sweet pea poisonous to cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Spencer Mixed sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus 'Spencer Mixed') as mildly toxic to cats. The ASPCA lists sweet pea (Lathyrus) as toxic to horses; for dogs and cats the primary concern relates to the toxic aminopropionitrile in seeds and pods. Seeds and unripe pods contain lathyrogenic compounds that in large quantities cause lathyrism (neurological weakness, paralysis). The flowers are not considered significantly hazardous but the seeds and pods must never be consumed. Wear gloves when handling and keep seed packets away from children and pets. RHS also advises against eating pods or seeds.

How serious is it if my cat ate spencer mixed sweet pea?

Spencer Mixed sweet pea 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. The ASPCA lists sweet pea (Lathyrus) as toxic to horses; for dogs and cats the primary concern relates to the toxic aminopropionitrile in seeds and pods. Seeds and unripe pods contain lathyrogenic compounds that in large quantities cause lathyrism (neurological weakness, paralysis). The flowers are not considered significantly hazardous but the seeds and pods must never be consumed. Wear gloves when handling and keep seed packets away from children and pets. RHS also advises against eating pods or seeds. 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 spencer mixed sweet pea well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.

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