Is Edging lobelia toxic to cats?

Yes — edging lobelia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists Lobelia (including Lobelia cardinalis) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. The toxic principle is lobeline, a piperidine alkaloid. Clinical signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive salivation, abdominal pain, depression, and cardiac rhythm disturbances. Lobelia erinus belongs to the same genus and should be treated as toxic; keep away from pets.

The ASPCA lists Lobelia (including Lobelia cardinalis) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. The toxic principle is lobeline, a piperidine alkaloid. Clinical signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive salivation, abdominal pain, depression, and cardiac rhythm disturbances. Lobelia erinus belongs to the same genus and should be treated as toxic; keep 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 edging lobelia.

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: Edging lobelia is toxic to dogs as well. See the full edging lobelia 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.