Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Cat near milky sap plant. Is it poisonous? What symptoms to watch?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 5 months old

Hello, Yesterday my cat was playing in the garden when I noticed that he was playing near a plant with a leaf that was freshly cut from the top and a little bit of milky sap leaking from it. I'm not sure the cat ate that small part of the leaf. I'm especially worried because I read somewhere that most plant that produce that milky sap are poisonous. However, it's been almost 24h and I still haven't noticed any symptoms in the cat, he's normal without any change in habits or behavior. Thank you

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on July 25th, 2017

Depending on the type of plant, it may or may not cause harm. If you are able to take part of the plant to a local nursery and find out the type of plant it was, this would be helpful. The main things you want to look for are decrease in activity, decrease in appetite, vomiting or diarrhea. Also look in his mouth of any ulcerstions as some plants only cause a local reaction. If you find out the name of the plant, we would be glad to help you get more information. I hope this helps.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, not all plants are poisonous to cats. Some which we specifically look out for in cats are lily plants, sago palm, and other things like amanita mushroom. If Silver is so far doing ok, I would just continue to monitor him for any vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite and contact your veterinarian if you note any of the above. Hope this helps.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    Typically, you would see gastrointestinal upset (vomiting and/or diarrhea) and maybe some drooling and irritation around the mouth after ingestion or chewing these types of plants. If Silver is not exhibiting any of these symptoms, there is likely no cause for concern. Continue to monitor for a few more days. Restrict access to the garden if possible.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored