Is Astilbe chinensis 'Pumila' toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists astilbe chinensis 'pumila' as mildly toxic to cats — a chewing cat typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Astilbe is not listed on the ASPCA toxic plant database, and several horticultural sources describe it as non-toxic, but it does not carry an affirmative ASPCA non-toxic listing. Because pet-safe claims require ASPCA grounding, it is treated here as not individually ASPCA-listed: most likely low-risk but verify with a vet before assuming it is fully pet-safe; large ingestion may still cause mild GI upset.

Astilbe is not listed on the ASPCA toxic plant database, and several horticultural sources describe it as non-toxic, but it does not carry an affirmative ASPCA non-toxic listing. Because pet-safe claims require ASPCA grounding, it is treated here as not individually ASPCA-listed: most likely low-risk but verify with a vet before assuming it is fully pet-safe; large ingestion may still cause mild GI upset. 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 astilbe chinensis 'pumila'.

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 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK 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: Astilbe chinensis 'Pumila' is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full astilbe chinensis 'pumila' 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.