Is Loquat toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists loquat 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. Eriobotrya japonica is not clearly listed on the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database, so treat its status as uncertain and verify with a vet. Importantly, the seeds, leaves and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides (amygdalin) that release cyanide when chewed; the ripe flesh is generally regarded as safe, but pets should be kept from the seeds and foliage.

Eriobotrya japonica is not clearly listed on the ASPCA Toxic/Non-Toxic Plants database, so treat its status as uncertain and verify with a vet. Importantly, the seeds, leaves and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides (amygdalin) that release cyanide when chewed; the ripe flesh is generally regarded as safe, but pets should be kept from the seeds and foliage. 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 loquat.

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: Loquat is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full loquat 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.