Growli

Pet safety

Is Gunnera manicata toxic to cats?

Gunnera manicata

Mildly toxic to cats

Mildly. The ASPCA lists gunnera manicata as mildly toxic to cats — a chewing cat typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Gunnera manicata is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant lists; despite the common name it is unrelated to true rhubarb (Rheum, which the ASPCA does list as toxic). Its pet status is unconfirmed, so treat it with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming it is safe.

What to do if your cat ate gunnera manicata

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move gunnera manicata out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of gunnera manicata to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten gunnera manicata, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is gunnera manicata toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is gunnera manicata toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists gunnera manicata as mildly toxic to cats — a chewing cat typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Gunnera manicata is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant lists; despite the common name it is unrelated to true rhubarb (Rheum, which the ASPCA does list as toxic). Its pet status is unconfirmed, so treat it with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming it is safe.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats gunnera manicata?

Gunnera manicata is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant lists; despite the common name it is unrelated to true rhubarb (Rheum, which the ASPCA does list as toxic). Its pet status is unconfirmed, so treat it with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming it is safe. 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 gunnera manicata.

What should I do if my cat ate gunnera manicata?

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.

Is gunnera manicata toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Gunnera manicata is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full gunnera manicata pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to gunnera manicata?

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.

Full gunnera manicata pet-safety