Is Prairie Milkweed toxic to cats?

Yes — prairie milkweed is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. As an Asclepias species, Prairie Milkweed contains cardenolide cardiac glycosides and milky latex throughout all plant parts, consistent with ASPCA's classification of Asclepias (milkweeds) as toxic to dogs and cats. Ingestion of any plant part may cause vomiting, weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and respiratory depression. Consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.

As an Asclepias species, Prairie Milkweed contains cardenolide cardiac glycosides and milky latex throughout all plant parts, consistent with ASPCA's classification of Asclepias (milkweeds) as toxic to dogs and cats. Ingestion of any plant part may cause vomiting, weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and respiratory depression. Consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected. 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 prairie milkweed.

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: Prairie Milkweed is toxic to dogs as well. See the full prairie milkweed 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.