Is Gout Plant toxic to cats?

Yes — gout plant 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 Jatropha podagrica are toxic to pets and humans. The seeds contain curcin, a toxalbumin with mechanisms similar to ricin, and purgative diterpenoid esters. Ingestion causes severe gastrointestinal distress (vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain), and seed ingestion can cause hepatic damage. The milky latex sap causes skin and mucous membrane irritation. The Queensland Poisons Information Centre classifies all parts as highly toxic. Keep strictly away from dogs, cats, and children.

All parts of Jatropha podagrica are toxic to pets and humans. The seeds contain curcin, a toxalbumin with mechanisms similar to ricin, and purgative diterpenoid esters. Ingestion causes severe gastrointestinal distress (vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain), and seed ingestion can cause hepatic damage. The milky latex sap causes skin and mucous membrane irritation. The Queensland Poisons Information Centre classifies all parts as highly toxic. Keep strictly away from dogs, cats, 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 gout plant.

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: Gout Plant is toxic to dogs as well. See the full gout plant 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.