Is Lythrum salicaria toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists lythrum salicaria 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. Lythrum salicaria is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant lists, so its toxicity to cats and dogs is unconfirmed; treat it with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming it is safe. The far greater concern with this species is its status as a regulated invasive weed in many regions.

Lythrum salicaria is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant lists, so its toxicity to cats and dogs is unconfirmed; treat it with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming it is safe. The far greater concern with this species is its status as a regulated invasive weed in many regions. 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 lythrum salicaria.

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: Lythrum salicaria is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full lythrum salicaria 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.