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Is King Richard Leek toxic to cats?

Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum 'King Richard'

Toxic to cats

Yes — king richard leek is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. The ASPCA lists leeks and other Allium species as toxic to cats and dogs. Thiosulphates in the leaves and stems cause oxidative red-blood-cell damage and haemolytic anaemia; signs include vomiting, lethargy, weakness, pale gums and red-tinged urine. Keep trimmings and shafts away from pets.

What to do if your cat ate king richard leek

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move king richard leek 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 king richard leek to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is king richard leek toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is king richard leek toxic to cats?

Yes — king richard leek 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 leeks and other Allium species as toxic to cats and dogs. Thiosulphates in the leaves and stems cause oxidative red-blood-cell damage and haemolytic anaemia; signs include vomiting, lethargy, weakness, pale gums and red-tinged urine. Keep trimmings and shafts away from pets.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats king richard leek?

The ASPCA lists leeks and other Allium species as toxic to cats and dogs. Thiosulphates in the leaves and stems cause oxidative red-blood-cell damage and haemolytic anaemia; signs include vomiting, lethargy, weakness, pale gums and red-tinged urine. Keep trimmings and shafts away from pets. 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 king richard leek.

What should I do if my cat ate king richard leek?

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 king richard leek toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: King Richard Leek is toxic to dogs as well. See the full king richard leek pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to king richard leek?

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 king richard leek pet-safety