Is Hosta sieboldiana 'Elegans' toxic to cats?

Yes — hosta sieboldiana 'elegans' 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 Hosta (plantain lily) as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. The toxic principle is saponins; signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhoea and depression. The plant does not produce soap foam in the stomach as some myths claim, but it does cause real gastrointestinal upset, so prevent pets from eating it.

The ASPCA lists Hosta (plantain lily) as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. The toxic principle is saponins; signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhoea and depression. The plant does not produce soap foam in the stomach as some myths claim, but it does cause real gastrointestinal upset, so prevent pets from eating it. 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 hosta sieboldiana 'elegans'.

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: Hosta sieboldiana 'Elegans' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full hosta sieboldiana 'elegans' 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.