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Is Firecracker Plant toxic to cats?

Russelia equisetiformis

Mildly toxic to cats

Mildly. The ASPCA lists firecracker plant 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. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Russelia equisetiformis (family Plantaginaceae) is not individually listed by the ASPCA. No confirmed toxic principle has been documented in the genus. Most authorities consider it non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. If a pet ingests a significant amount, consult a veterinarian.

What to do if your cat ate firecracker plant

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

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

Is firecracker plant toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is firecracker plant toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists firecracker plant 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. Russelia equisetiformis (family Plantaginaceae) is not individually listed by the ASPCA. No confirmed toxic principle has been documented in the genus. Most authorities consider it non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. If a pet ingests a significant amount, consult a veterinarian.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats firecracker plant?

Russelia equisetiformis (family Plantaginaceae) is not individually listed by the ASPCA. No confirmed toxic principle has been documented in the genus. Most authorities consider it non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. If a pet ingests a significant amount, consult a veterinarian. 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 firecracker plant.

What should I do if my cat ate firecracker plant?

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 firecracker plant toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Firecracker Plant is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full firecracker plant pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to firecracker plant?

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 firecracker plant pet-safety