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Is Crimson Cestrum toxic to cats?

Cestrum elegans

Toxic to cats

Yes — crimson cestrum 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. All parts of Cestrum elegans are toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and livestock. As a Solanaceae family member, it contains steroidal alkaloids. Poisoning has been documented in cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and pigs. Symptoms include severe gastrointestinal distress, weakness, and collapse. The berries are particularly hazardous as they resemble edible fruit. Keep away from all pets and children.

What to do if your cat ate crimson cestrum

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move crimson cestrum 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 crimson cestrum to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is crimson cestrum toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is crimson cestrum toxic to cats?

Yes — crimson cestrum is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. All parts of Cestrum elegans are toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and livestock. As a Solanaceae family member, it contains steroidal alkaloids. Poisoning has been documented in cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and pigs. Symptoms include severe gastrointestinal distress, weakness, and collapse. The berries are particularly hazardous as they resemble edible fruit. Keep away from all pets and children.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats crimson cestrum?

All parts of Cestrum elegans are toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and livestock. As a Solanaceae family member, it contains steroidal alkaloids. Poisoning has been documented in cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and pigs. Symptoms include severe gastrointestinal distress, weakness, and collapse. The berries are particularly hazardous as they resemble edible fruit. Keep away from all pets and children. 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 crimson cestrum.

What should I do if my cat ate crimson cestrum?

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 crimson cestrum toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Crimson Cestrum is toxic to dogs as well. See the full crimson cestrum pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to crimson cestrum?

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 crimson cestrum pet-safety