Is Aesculus flava toxic to cats?

Yes — aesculus flava is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists buckeye/horse chestnut (Aesculus) as toxic; the toxic principles are aesculin and related glycosidic saponins present throughout the tree, including nuts, leaves, bark and shoots. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, depression or excitement, dilated pupils, twitching, incoordination and, in severe cases, convulsions.

Toxic to dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists buckeye/horse chestnut (Aesculus) as toxic; the toxic principles are aesculin and related glycosidic saponins present throughout the tree, including nuts, leaves, bark and shoots. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, depression or excitement, dilated pupils, twitching, incoordination and, in severe cases, convulsions. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to aesculus flava.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Aesculus flava is toxic to dogs as well. See the full aesculus flava pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.