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Is Alpine Clematis toxic to cats?

Clematis alpina

Toxic to cats

Yes — alpine clematis is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Clematis alpina contains protoanemonin, the toxic irritant compound present in all Clematis species, which is listed as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses by the ASPCA. Ingestion causes salivation, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress. Sap can irritate human skin; wear gloves when pruning.

What to do if your cat ate alpine clematis

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move alpine clematis out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of alpine clematis to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten alpine clematis, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is alpine clematis toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is alpine clematis toxic to cats?

Yes — alpine clematis is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Clematis alpina contains protoanemonin, the toxic irritant compound present in all Clematis species, which is listed as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses by the ASPCA. Ingestion causes salivation, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress. Sap can irritate human skin; wear gloves when pruning.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats alpine clematis?

Clematis alpina contains protoanemonin, the toxic irritant compound present in all Clematis species, which is listed as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses by the ASPCA. Ingestion causes salivation, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress. Sap can irritate human skin; wear gloves when pruning. 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 alpine clematis.

What should I do if my cat ate alpine clematis?

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.

Is alpine clematis toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Alpine Clematis is toxic to dogs as well. See the full alpine clematis pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to alpine clematis?

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.

Full alpine clematis pet-safety