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.

Brunfelsia species
Brunfelsia is a genus of flowering shrubs known for their fragrant, color-changing blooms. All parts of the plant are considered toxic to pets if ingested.
Safety status
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.
Cats are at risk from yesterday-today-and-tomorrow, though documented poisonings are far more common in dogs. ASPCA lists the plant as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses because of brunfelsamidine and related alkaloids that cause severe neurological signs; the same toxins are expected to affect cats, so any chewing or swallowing should be treated as an emergency.
Look for hypersalivation and vomiting first, followed by tremors, twitching, agitation or anxious pacing, incoordination, and seizures. Diarrhea, lethargy, and coughing have also been reported. Seizures may persist or recur for several days.
Onset is typically within 2 hours but may take several hours. Seizures can persist for days in severe cases, so hospital monitoring is often required; exact timing for cats specifically is not well documented because most reported cases are in dogs.
Call right away. Any suspected ingestion warrants an emergency visit, and any tremor, twitching, or seizure activity is reason to drive to the ER vet immediately. Phone the ASPCA APCC (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) on the way for guidance.
Bring any plant material or seed pods (or a clear photo) to the clinic so the team can confirm Brunfelsia. Do not induce vomiting at home, especially if your cat is already tremoring or seizing — call ASPCA APCC (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) and follow their instructions while you transport.
Sources: ASPCA, NC State Extension.
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, tremors, seizures, and drooling.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to serious neurological signs. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if you suspect ingestion.
Safer alternatives
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NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Brunfelsia pauciflora is a shrub in the Solanaceae family that is toxic if ingested.
Same cat verdict

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