Is Spider Milkweed toxic to cats?

Yes — spider milkweed is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Asclepias asperula contains cardenolide cardiac glycosides and resinoids throughout all plant parts — consistent with the ASPCA's listing of Asclepias species as toxic to dogs and cats. The milky latex sap is particularly concentrated in toxins. Ingestion can cause vomiting, lethargy, cardiac effects, and in large amounts, respiratory depression. Keep pets away.

Asclepias asperula contains cardenolide cardiac glycosides and resinoids throughout all plant parts — consistent with the ASPCA's listing of Asclepias species as toxic to dogs and cats. The milky latex sap is particularly concentrated in toxins. Ingestion can cause vomiting, lethargy, cardiac effects, and in large amounts, respiratory depression. Keep pets away. 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 spider 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: Spider Milkweed is toxic to dogs as well. See the full spider 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.