Is Ceanothus thyrsiflorus 'Skylark' toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists ceanothus thyrsiflorus 'skylark' 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. Ceanothus (California lilac/blueblossom) is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status for cats and dogs is unconfirmed; it differs from true lilac (Syringa). Treat with caution, discourage chewing, and verify with a vet if ingested. Do not assume it is pet-safe.

Ceanothus (California lilac/blueblossom) is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, so its status for cats and dogs is unconfirmed; it differs from true lilac (Syringa). Treat with caution, discourage chewing, and verify with a vet if ingested. Do not assume it is pet-safe. 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 ceanothus thyrsiflorus 'skylark'.

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: Ceanothus thyrsiflorus 'Skylark' is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full ceanothus thyrsiflorus 'skylark' 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.