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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

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.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM
Veterinarian
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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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