Cats & Dogs
Generally safeConsulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Red Maple
Acer rubrum
The Red Maple is a popular deciduous tree known for its vibrant fall foliage and rapid growth. While generally considered safe for pets, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Acer rubrumRed MapleSoft MapleSwamp Maple
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Upright tree
- Care
- Low
Safety status
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
None typically expected; however, consumption of large quantities of fibrous leaves or bark may result in mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
The plant is non-toxic, but any significant ingestion of plant fiber can cause temporary gastrointestinal upset. Contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None typically expected; however, consumption of large quantities of fibrous leaves or bark may result in mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
The plant is non-toxic, but any significant ingestion of plant fiber can cause temporary gastrointestinal upset. Contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Bring it home
Red Mapleis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Red Maple is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Acer rubrum is a native deciduous tree widely used in landscapes for its ornamental value.
Questions about Red Maple
Is red maple toxic to cats?
Red maple (Acer rubrum) is non-toxic to cats. It is classified as generally safe, meaning it does not contain compounds known to poison cats.
What happens if my cat eats red maple leaves?
No toxic reaction is expected, but eating large amounts of fibrous leaves or bark may cause mild, temporary vomiting or diarrhea from the plant fiber itself — not from any poison.
Should I call my vet if my cat chewed on a red maple tree?
A small nibble is unlikely to require a vet call since the plant is non-toxic. If your cat ate a significant quantity and is vomiting or has diarrhea that persists beyond a few hours, contact your veterinarian.
Does 'non-toxic' mean red maple is safe for cats to eat regularly?
Non-toxic means it won't poison your cat, but that doesn't make it a safe or appropriate food — repeated or large ingestions of fibrous plant material can cause recurring GI upset, so it's best to discourage the habit.
Is red maple toxic to dogs?
Red maple (Acer rubrum) is non-toxic to dogs. It is classified as generally safe, meaning no toxic principles have been identified that pose a poisoning risk to dogs.
What happens if a dog eats red maple leaves?
Eating small amounts of red maple leaves is unlikely to cause any problem. Consuming large quantities of fibrous leaves or bark may result in mild, temporary vomiting or diarrhea due to the physical bulk of the plant material, not a toxic reaction.
What should I do if my dog ate a lot of red maple leaves?
Monitor your dog for vomiting or diarrhea, which can occur after eating large amounts of any fibrous plant material. These symptoms are typically mild and temporary; contact your veterinarian if they persist or worsen.
Is there any part of the red maple tree that is dangerous to dogs?
No part of the red maple has been identified as toxic to dogs. The main concern with significant ingestion of any part — leaves, bark — is mechanical GI upset from fibrous material, not poisoning.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Ponderosa Pine
Pinus ponderosa
Pinus ponderosa is a large evergreen conifer known for its long needles and aromatic bark. While generally considered safe for pets, the fibrous nature of the needles can occasionally cause minor digestive irritation if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus
Garden cosmos is a daisy-like annual usually treated as a pet-safe flowering option, though any large plant ingestion can still cause mild stomach upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Calathea
Calathea spp.
Calathea are popular tropical houseplants known for their striking, patterned foliage and rhythmic leaf movement. They are considered safe for households with pets, though ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Dwarf Date Palm
Phoenix acaulis
The Dwarf Date Palm is a slow-growing, stemless palm species native to the grasslands of India. It is widely appreciated for its compact, architectural foliage that mimics the appearance of larger date palms in a miniature form.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.