Is Cats Safe?
Is English Ivy Safe for Cats?
No — English Ivy is toxic to cats.
English Ivy is listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. The toxic component is Triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin). Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep English Ivy away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.
| Scientific name | Hedera helix |
|---|---|
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Category | Plants |
| Toxic principle | Triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin) |
| Also known as | Branching Ivy, California Ivy, Glacier Ivy, Hahn's Self Branching English Ivy, Needlepoint Ivy, Sweetheart Ivy |
Signs to watch for in cats
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Hypersalivation
- Diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries
If your cat may have been exposed to English Ivy:
- Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
- Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
- Call your vet or a 24/7 line now — Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 · ASPCA 888-426-4435.
Other Araliaceae plants
Plants in the same family (Araliaceae) are easily confused with English Ivy — check each one:
Cat-safe alternatives
Browse all Plants for cats · or check another item.
Frequently asked questions
Is English Ivy toxic to cats?
Yes. English Ivy is reported toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Keep it away from your cat.
What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to English Ivy?
Reported signs include: Vomiting, Abdominal pain, Hypersalivation, Diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries.
What makes English Ivy toxic to cats?
The harmful component reported for English Ivy is Triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin). Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.
How much English Ivy is dangerous to cats?
There is no established "safe" amount — sensitivity varies by cat, and small exposures can still cause signs. Treat any exposure as potentially serious rather than waiting to see how much was involved.
What should I do if my cat ate English Ivy?
Contact your vet or a 24/7 animal poison line right away: Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).