Cats
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.
cat safety reference
Is Natal Plum safe for cats?
Carissa macrocarpa
The Natal Plum is a popular evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green foliage and fragrant white flowers. While generally considered safe for pets, it is a woody plant and ingestion of large amounts of fibrous material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Carissa grandifloraCarissa macrocarpaLarge Num-NumNatal Plum
- Light
- Bright direct light
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Safe for cats — the ASPCA lists Natal Plum (under the synonym Carissa grandiflora) as non-toxic to cats, with no toxic principle and no clinical signs documented.
Sources: ASPCA.
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
No specific toxicity symptoms are expected, though chewing or swallowing plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.
Escalation note
This plant is listed by ASPCA as non-toxic for this pet. Monitor for digestive upset after large ingestion and contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Natal Plum is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Plants of the World Online (Kew)
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted botanical name Carissa macrocarpa (Eckl.) A.DC.
Questions about Natal Plum
Is Natal Plum toxic to cats?
Natal Plum (Carissa macrocarpa) is listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA, so it is not expected to cause poisoning. That said, non-toxic does not mean harmless — chewing or swallowing plant material can still cause mild stomach upset, especially in large amounts.
What happens if my cat eats Natal Plum leaves?
No specific toxicity symptoms are expected, but ingesting fibrous plant material may cause mild digestive discomfort such as vomiting or loose stools. Symptoms should be minor and short-lived; contact your vet if they persist.
How much Natal Plum is dangerous for a cat to eat?
Because the plant is classified as non-toxic, there is no known toxic dose. The main risk is GI upset from eating a large quantity of fibrous leaves or stems — monitor your cat and call your vet if vomiting or lethargy continues beyond a few hours.
What should I do if my cat chewed on a Natal Plum plant?
Remove your cat's access to the plant, then watch for signs of digestive upset like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. No emergency treatment is typically needed for a non-toxic plant, but if symptoms are severe or prolonged, contact your veterinarian.
Same cat verdict
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