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 Devil's Walking Stick safe for cats?
Aralia spinosa
Aralia spinosa is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its large, compound leaves and spiny stems. It is often found in woodland settings and is considered toxic to pets if ingested.
Aralia spinosaDevil's Walking StickHercules' ClubPrickly Ash
- Light
- Partial shade to full sun
- Habit
- Upright shrub or small tree
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Devil's walking stick is rated as low-toxicity for cats — chewing the bark or eating the unripe berries usually causes only mild stomach upset. The plant's stout spines and skin-irritating bark are at least as much of a hazard as the toxin itself.
What to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea after a cat chews on bark, roots, or unripe fruit. Brief skin or oral irritation is also possible from contact with the bark or sap, but tends to fade within minutes.
Time window
Skin or oral irritation tends to be brief, lasting only minutes per the cited source. Onset and duration of GI signs aren't well documented.
When to call the vet
Call your veterinarian if vomiting persists more than a few hours, your cat won't eat, or you see deep puncture wounds from the plant's thorns. ASPCA does not list this species; reach ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) for case-specific guidance.
Sources: NC State Extension Plant Toolbox (no first-aid guidance).
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
Oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Escalation note
Ingestion can cause significant gastrointestinal distress. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if you suspect your cat has consumed any part of this plant.
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
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Aralia spinosa is a native North American shrub characterized by its thorny stems and large, bipinnately compound leaves.
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