Cats & Dogs
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
Pet safety reference
Pride of Barbados
Caesalpinia pulcherrima
Barbados Pride is a tropical shrub known for its vibrant, showy flowers and fern-like foliage. It is considered toxic to pets if ingested, primarily due to the presence of compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress.
Barbados PrideCaesalpinia pulcherrimaDwarf PoincianaPride of Barbados
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- Moderate
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
Vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset. Please contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately if you suspect your cat has consumed any part of this plant.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Escalation note
Ingestion may cause irritation to the digestive tract. Seek veterinary care promptly if your dog shows signs of illness after exposure.
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
Barbados Pride is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs by the ASPCA.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Caesalpinia pulcherrima is a tropical shrub that is toxic if ingested.
Questions about Pride of Barbados
Is Pride of Barbados toxic to cats?
Yes, Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is considered toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause significant gastrointestinal upset, and any part of the plant — including leaves and seeds — should be kept out of reach.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating Pride of Barbados?
The most common signs are vomiting (sometimes repeated) and watery diarrhea appearing within a few hours of ingestion. Your cat may also drool or paw at its mouth from oral irritation, and may become lethargic or stop eating once GI upset sets in. Severe systemic effects are not typical at household doses.
What should I do if my cat ate Pride of Barbados?
Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435, especially if your cat ate any seeds or pods — those warrant a call right away. Seek immediate veterinary care if vomiting or diarrhea is bloody, persists past a few hours, or is accompanied by lethargy or signs of dehydration such as sunken eyes or tacky gums.
How long do Pride of Barbados symptoms last in cats?
GI irritation typically appears within a few hours of ingestion. If no seeds were eaten in large quantity, symptoms generally resolve within 24–48 hours with supportive care, though the ASPCA does not specify an exact timeline.
Is Pride of Barbados toxic to dogs?
Yes, Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal irritation, and veterinary care is recommended promptly if your dog shows signs of illness after exposure.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating Pride of Barbados?
The most common signs are vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Watch also for drooling, abdominal discomfort, reduced appetite, and eye discharge. Labored breathing is uncommon but would suggest a larger ingestion of seeds or leaves.
What should I do if my dog ate Pride of Barbados seeds or pods?
Contact your vet promptly — seeds and seed pods are of particular concern. Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 for guidance while you arrange care. Do not wait to see if symptoms develop if your dog ate a significant amount.
How quickly do symptoms appear after a dog eats Pride of Barbados, and how long do they last?
GI signs typically begin within a few hours of ingestion and generally resolve within 24–48 hours with supportive care. The NC State listing does not specify exact onset or recovery windows, so monitor closely and call your vet if symptoms are severe, bloody, or not improving.
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