Pet emergency
My cat ate Starry Solomon's Seal — what to do
Step by step
- Take starry solomon's seal 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 starry solomon's seal — FAQ
Is starry solomon's seal poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Starry Solomon's Seal (Maianthemum stellatum) as mildly toxic to cats. The berries and rhizomes contain steroidal saponins; Maianthemum stellatum is not individually listed by the ASPCA. Related Maianthemum species are documented to contain saponins that can cause gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea) in cats and dogs. Do not assume safe — keep pets away from berries and foliage.
How serious is it if my cat ate starry solomon's seal?
Starry Solomon's Seal 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 berries and rhizomes contain steroidal saponins; Maianthemum stellatum is not individually listed by the ASPCA. Related Maianthemum species are documented to contain saponins that can cause gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea) in cats and dogs. Do not assume safe — keep pets away from berries and foliage. 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 starry solomon's seal well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is starry solomon's seal toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Starry Solomon's Seal and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide