Is Scorzonera toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists scorzonera 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. Scorzonera (Scorzonera hispanica), like its salsify relatives, is not individually listed by the ASPCA on its toxic or non-toxic plant lists; treat it as uncertain and verify with a vet before assuming it is pet-safe. The roots and stems contain a bitter milky latex that generally deters animals and may cause mild GI upset if eaten.

Scorzonera (Scorzonera hispanica), like its salsify relatives, is not individually listed by the ASPCA on its toxic or non-toxic plant lists; treat it as uncertain and verify with a vet before assuming it is pet-safe. The roots and stems contain a bitter milky latex that generally deters animals and may cause mild GI upset if eaten. 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 scorzonera.

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: Scorzonera is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full scorzonera 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.