Pet emergency
My cat ate Weeping silver pear — what to do
Step by step
- Take weeping silver pear 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 weeping silver pear — FAQ
Is weeping silver pear poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Weeping silver pear (Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula') as mildly toxic to cats. Pyrus salicifolia seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides typical of Rosaceae. Fruits are small, hard, and bitter — rarely consumed. ASPCA does not individually list this species; the risk to pets from fruit or foliage contact is considered low, but seed ingestion should be discouraged.
How serious is it if my cat ate weeping silver pear?
Weeping silver pear 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. Pyrus salicifolia seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides typical of Rosaceae. Fruits are small, hard, and bitter — rarely consumed. ASPCA does not individually list this species; the risk to pets from fruit or foliage contact is considered low, but seed ingestion should be discouraged. 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 weeping silver pear well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is weeping silver pear toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Weeping silver pear and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide