Is English ivy toxic to cats?
Also called: ivy, Hedera, Branching Ivy, Glacier Ivy, Needlepoint Ivy, Sweetheart Ivy, California Ivy, Hedera helix
Toxic
Causes vomiting, stomach pain, drooling and diarrhoea; the leaves are more toxic than the berries.
Yes. English ivy is toxic to cats. It can cause vomiting, stomach pain, drooling and diarrhoea. The leaves are more toxic than the berries.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting, abdominal pain, drooling and diarrhoea.
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Toxicity: Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses
Read "Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: English Ivy"
Checked 9 October 2026
VCA Animal Hospitals
Other poisonous plants include sago palm, philodendron, English ivy, cyclamen, pothos and chrysanthemum.
Read "Household Items Toxic To Kittens"
Checked 9 October 2026
Merck Veterinary Manual
Common gastrointestinal irritant house and ornamental plants include: Aloe spp (aloe) Euphorbia pulcherrima (poinsettia) Hedera spp (ivy)
Read "Houseplants and Ornamentals Toxic to Animals"
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Toxicity: Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses
Clinical Signs: Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries
Read "Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: English Ivy"
Checked 9 October 2026
VCA Animal Hospitals
Other poisonous plants include sago palm, philodendron, English ivy, cyclamen, pothos and chrysanthemum.
Read "Household Items Toxic To Kittens"
Checked 9 October 2026
Merck Veterinary Manual
Common gastrointestinal irritant house and ornamental plants include: Aloe spp (aloe) Euphorbia pulcherrima (poinsettia) Hedera spp (ivy)
Read "Houseplants and Ornamentals Toxic to Animals"
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
International Cat Care
If you’re concerned your cat has come into contact with any of the substances listed, contact your veterinary team immediately
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Clinical Signs: Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries
Read "Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: English Ivy"
Checked 9 October 2026