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Is Weeping Fig Variegata toxic to cats?

Ficus benjamina 'Variegata'

Toxic to cats

Yes — weeping fig variegata is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats and dogs (as Weeping Fig / Ficus benjamina). The toxic principles are the proteolytic enzyme ficin and the psoralen ficusin found in the milky sap; ingestion and sap contact cause gastrointestinal upset (drooling, vomiting) and dermal irritation. Keep out of reach of pets and wash skin after pruning.

What to do if your cat ate weeping fig variegata

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

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

Is weeping fig variegata toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is weeping fig variegata toxic to cats?

Yes — weeping fig variegata is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats and dogs (as Weeping Fig / Ficus benjamina). The toxic principles are the proteolytic enzyme ficin and the psoralen ficusin found in the milky sap; ingestion and sap contact cause gastrointestinal upset (drooling, vomiting) and dermal irritation. Keep out of reach of pets and wash skin after pruning.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats weeping fig variegata?

ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats and dogs (as Weeping Fig / Ficus benjamina). The toxic principles are the proteolytic enzyme ficin and the psoralen ficusin found in the milky sap; ingestion and sap contact cause gastrointestinal upset (drooling, vomiting) and dermal irritation. Keep out of reach of pets and wash skin after pruning. 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 weeping fig variegata.

What should I do if my cat ate weeping fig variegata?

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 weeping fig variegata toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Weeping Fig Variegata is toxic to dogs as well. See the full weeping fig variegata pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to weeping fig variegata?

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 weeping fig variegata pet-safety