Is Foxglove toxic to cats?

Yes — foxglove is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. All parts contain cardiac glycosides — primarily digitoxin, digoxin, and digitalinum verum — that disrupt the sodium-potassium pump in heart muscle cells. ASPCA lists Digitalis purpurea as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, irregular and potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and death. Even small amounts of leaf material are dangerous to cats and small dogs. Seek immediate emergency veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.

All parts contain cardiac glycosides — primarily digitoxin, digoxin, and digitalinum verum — that disrupt the sodium-potassium pump in heart muscle cells. ASPCA lists Digitalis purpurea as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, irregular and potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and death. Even small amounts of leaf material are dangerous to cats and small dogs. Seek immediate emergency veterinary care if ingestion is suspected. 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 foxglove.

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: Foxglove is toxic to dogs as well. See the full foxglove 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.