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If your cat ate the governor lupine — 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.

The Governor lupine is toxic to cats (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My cat ate The Governor lupine — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take the governor lupine 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 the governor lupine — FAQ

Is the governor lupine poisonous to cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists The Governor lupine (Lupinus x regalis 'The Governor') as toxic to cats. ASPCA lists Lupinus species as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Lupins contain quinolizidine alkaloids (sparteine, lupinine) concentrated in the seeds and seed pods. Ingestion can cause vomiting, salivation, weakness, muscle tremors, and in severe cases seizures and collapse, particularly in livestock. All parts should be kept away from pets and children; seeds are most dangerous.

How serious is it if my cat ate the governor lupine?

The Governor lupine is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.

What symptoms should I watch for?

Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. ASPCA lists Lupinus species as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Lupins contain quinolizidine alkaloids (sparteine, lupinine) concentrated in the seeds and seed pods. Ingestion can cause vomiting, salivation, weakness, muscle tremors, and in severe cases seizures and collapse, particularly in livestock. All parts should be kept away from pets and children; seeds are most dangerous. 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 the governor lupine well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.

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