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.
Sources
cat safety reference
Is Spreading Dogbane safe for cats?
Apocynum androsaemifolium
Bitter Root is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its pink, bell-shaped flowers and milky sap. It contains cardiac glycosides that are harmful if ingested by pets.
Apocynum androsaemifoliumBitterrootSpreading Dogbane
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Upright, spreading perennial
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats: keep away. The toxic principle is cardenolides — the same class of cardiac glycoside found in foxglove and digoxin — which interfere directly with electrolyte balance in heart muscle. Pet Poison Helpline notes the plant is bitter-tasting, so casual nibbling is uncommon, but any ingestion is a heart-rhythm emergency.
What to watch for
ASPCA reports diarrhea (possibly with blood), slow heart rate, and weakness. Pet Poison Helpline adds vomiting, severe cardiac arrhythmias, and possible seizures from cardiac glycoside exposure.
Time window
Onset and recovery timing are not specifically documented for this plant in either ASPCA or Pet Poison Helpline; Pet Poison Helpline states that any exposed pet should be evaluated and treated symptomatically.
When to call the vet
Call any time you suspect a cat has chewed or swallowed any part of the plant. Cardiac arrhythmias can develop before visible weakness, and bloody diarrhea or collapse is an emergency.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline (no first-aid guidance beyond contacting a vet).
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, diarrhea, drooling, cardiac arrhythmias, and lethargy.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to serious cardiac distress. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center 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
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Bitter Root contains cardiac glycosides which are toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Apocynum androsaemifolium is a native perennial known for its toxic properties due to the presence of cardiac glycosides.
Same cat verdict
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