Is Dwarf Elder toxic to cats?

Yes — dwarf elder 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 Sambucus ebulus are toxic to pets and humans when raw. The berries, leaves, bark, and roots contain cyanogenic glycosides (sambunigrin) and alkaloids. Raw berries cause severe gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and in large quantities can be dangerous. Unlike Sambucus nigra, the berries of S. ebulus are generally considered too toxic for culinary use without thorough processing. ASPCA lists elderberry (Sambucus) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

All parts of Sambucus ebulus are toxic to pets and humans when raw. The berries, leaves, bark, and roots contain cyanogenic glycosides (sambunigrin) and alkaloids. Raw berries cause severe gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and in large quantities can be dangerous. Unlike Sambucus nigra, the berries of S. ebulus are generally considered too toxic for culinary use without thorough processing. ASPCA lists elderberry (Sambucus) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. 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 dwarf elder.

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: Dwarf Elder is toxic to dogs as well. See the full dwarf elder 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.