Cats
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
cat safety reference
Is Rosary Pea safe for cats?
Abrus precatorius
The Rosary Pea is a climbing vine known for its highly toxic seeds, which contain the potent protein abrin. Due to the extreme danger posed by the seeds, this plant should be kept strictly out of reach of all pets.
Abrus precatoriusCrab's EyeJequirity BeanPrecatory BeanRosary Pea
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Climbing vine
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are at extreme risk if they chew a Rosary Pea seed — abrin, the seed's main toxin, is one of the most potent plant poisons known, and even a single seed can be fatal once the hard coat is broken by chewing. Whole, intact seeds may pass through with less effect, but no amount of contact is safe to ignore.
What to watch for
Severe vomiting and diarrhea (sometimes bloody) developing over hours up to a day after ingestion; abdominal pain, bloat, weakness, fever, fast heart rate, and signs of shock such as pale gums, cold paws, and collapse.
Time window
Signs can begin within a few hours, but severe abdominal pain and hemorrhagic diarrhea may take up to a day after ingestion to fully appear. Without aggressive supportive care, severe dehydration and shock can be fatal.
When to call the vet
Call immediately. Even one chewed seed is a potential emergency — contact your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 the moment you see your cat with the seeds, before symptoms appear.
Sources: ASPCA (no first-aid guidance for owners).
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, tremors, and potential organ failure.
Escalation note
The seeds are extremely toxic; ingestion of even a single seed can be fatal. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
Same cat verdict
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