Is Bellflower Codonopsis toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists bellflower codonopsis 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. Codonopsis species are not listed by ASPCA. The genus belongs to Campanulaceae; some members contain alkaloids and saponins. In the absence of confirmed pet-safe status, this plant should be treated as mildly toxic: prevent cats and dogs from chewing the roots or foliage and seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.

Codonopsis species are not listed by ASPCA. The genus belongs to Campanulaceae; some members contain alkaloids and saponins. In the absence of confirmed pet-safe status, this plant should be treated as mildly toxic: prevent cats and dogs from chewing the roots or foliage and seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs. 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 bellflower codonopsis.

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: Bellflower Codonopsis is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full bellflower codonopsis 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.