Is Water Spinach 'Pak Boong' toxic to cats?

Yes — water spinach 'pak boong' is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. As a member of the genus Ipomoea, which the ASPCA classifies as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (morning glory, Ipomoea spp.), the plant contains indole/LSA-type alkaloids capable of causing vomiting and neurological signs from the seeds. The cooked stems are eaten by people, but the plant should be kept away from pets.

As a member of the genus Ipomoea, which the ASPCA classifies as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (morning glory, Ipomoea spp.), the plant contains indole/LSA-type alkaloids capable of causing vomiting and neurological signs from the seeds. The cooked stems are eaten by people, but the plant should be kept away from pets. 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 water spinach 'pak boong'.

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: Water Spinach 'Pak Boong' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full water spinach 'pak boong' 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.