Pet emergency
My cat ate White Campion — what to do
Step by step
- Take white campion 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 white campion — FAQ
Is white campion poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists White Campion (Silene latifolia) as mildly toxic to cats. Not listed by the ASPCA. Contains saponins common to the Caryophyllaceae family; large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal distress in dogs or cats. Treat with caution and prevent pets from eating the plant.
How serious is it if my cat ate white campion?
White Campion 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. Not listed by the ASPCA. Contains saponins common to the Caryophyllaceae family; large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal distress in dogs or cats. Treat with caution and prevent pets from eating the plant. 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 white campion well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is white campion toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- White Campion and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide