Is Veronica spicata subsp. incana toxic to cats?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists veronica spicata subsp. incana 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. Veronica spicata subsp. incana is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, and speedwells are widely regarded as low risk; treat with caution and verify with a vet. As with any plant, ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats or dogs.

Veronica spicata subsp. incana is not individually listed on the ASPCA's toxic or non-toxic plant database, and speedwells are widely regarded as low risk; treat with caution and verify with a vet. As with any plant, ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats or dogs. 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 veronica spicata subsp. incana.

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: Veronica spicata subsp. incana is mildly toxic to dogs as well. See the full veronica spicata subsp. incana 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.