Is 'California Wonder' Bell Pepper toxic to cats?

Yes — 'california wonder' bell pepper is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Capsicum annuum is a Solanaceae nightshade; the ASPCA lists ornamental pepper (Capsicum annuum) as toxic to cats and dogs, with solanine as the toxic principle. The foliage and stems are the hazard, and ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and depression. The ripe sweet fruit itself is edible to people but the plant should be kept away from pets.

Capsicum annuum is a Solanaceae nightshade; the ASPCA lists ornamental pepper (Capsicum annuum) as toxic to cats and dogs, with solanine as the toxic principle. The foliage and stems are the hazard, and ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and depression. The ripe sweet fruit itself is edible to people but the plant should be kept away from pets. 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 'california wonder' bell pepper.

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: 'California Wonder' Bell Pepper is toxic to dogs as well. See the full 'california wonder' bell pepper 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.