Is Greater Spearwort toxic to cats?

Yes — greater spearwort is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. All Ranunculus species contain ranunculin, which converts to protoanemonin — a potent irritant causing oral blistering, drooling, and gastrointestinal distress in pets and humans if ingested. ASPCA lists Ranunculus as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Handling may cause contact dermatitis; wear gloves when planting. Toxic effects are more severe when plants are fresh.

All Ranunculus species contain ranunculin, which converts to protoanemonin — a potent irritant causing oral blistering, drooling, and gastrointestinal distress in pets and humans if ingested. ASPCA lists Ranunculus as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Handling may cause contact dermatitis; wear gloves when planting. Toxic effects are more severe when plants are fresh. 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 greater spearwort.

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: Greater Spearwort is toxic to dogs as well. See the full greater spearwort 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.