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
Madagascar Periwinkle
Catharanthus roseus
Catharanthus roseus is a flowering plant known for its vibrant blooms, but it contains alkaloids that are harmful if ingested by pets. It is commonly grown as an annual bedding plant or a container specimen.
Catharanthus roseusMadagascar periwinkleRose periwinkleVinca rosea
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Mounded or trailing
- Care
- Low
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, depression, and potential cardiovascular issues.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects due to the presence of vinca alkaloids. Please contact your veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potential tremors or ataxia.
Escalation note
The plant contains toxic alkaloids that can cause serious illness if consumed. Seek veterinary care promptly if your dog has ingested any part of this plant.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Periwinkle contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression in pets.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Catharanthus roseus is a tender perennial often grown as an annual, noted for its toxicity if ingested.
Questions about Madagascar Periwinkle
Is Madagascar Periwinkle toxic to cats?
Yes, Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) is potentially toxic to cats. It contains vinca alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and cardiovascular effects if ingested.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating Madagascar Periwinkle?
Mild ingestion typically causes vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, depression, and loss of coordination, with signs appearing within a few hours. Heavier ingestions can produce tremors, seizures, low blood pressure, weakness, pale or bluish gums, and rarely coma — watch your cat's gum color and energy level closely as early warning signs.
What should I do if my cat ate Madagascar Periwinkle?
Remove any plant fragments from your cat's mouth and gently wipe the gums with a damp cloth, then call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or your vet immediately — even if your cat seems fine. Do not try to induce vomiting at home.
What alkaloids in Madagascar Periwinkle make it dangerous, and how serious is poisoning?
Madagascar Periwinkle contains vinca alkaloids, which cause significant gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects including potential cardiovascular issues. Mild GI cases from small ingestions typically resolve within 24 hours, but severe cases may require 48 to 72 hours of veterinary supportive care.
Is Madagascar Periwinkle toxic to dogs?
Yes, Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) is toxic to dogs. It contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in more serious cases, tremors or ataxia. Seek veterinary care promptly if your dog has ingested any part of this plant.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating Madagascar Periwinkle?
Vomiting and diarrhea are typically the first signs, often paired with lethargy and loss of coordination. With a larger ingestion, watch for tremors, seizures, weakness, and slow capillary refill. Mild GI signs usually appear within a few hours; toy breeds and puppies reach toxic doses much faster than larger dogs.
What should I do if my dog ate Madagascar Periwinkle?
Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and collect a leaf or two so the vet can confirm the species. Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680 before driving in. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a professional.
How long does Madagascar Periwinkle poisoning last in dogs?
Most dogs recover within 24 hours with fluids and supportive care. More serious cases involving neurological signs — tremors, ataxia, or seizures — may require 48 to 72 hours of monitoring. Bring your dog in immediately if any neurological symptoms appear or if vomiting doesn't settle within an hour or two.
Same safety verdict
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