Is Paraboea rufescens toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists paraboea rufescens 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. Not individually listed by the ASPCA, and no Paraboea species appears on its toxic or non-toxic lists; the family Gesneriaceae's listed members are non-toxic, which is reassuring but not species-specific. Treat with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming it is pet-safe.

Not individually listed by the ASPCA, and no Paraboea species appears on its toxic or non-toxic lists; the family Gesneriaceae's listed members are non-toxic, which is reassuring but not species-specific. Treat with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming it is pet-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 paraboea rufescens.

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: Paraboea rufescens is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full paraboea rufescens 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.