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 Madagascar Periwinkle safe for cats?
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
What this means for your cat
Cats and Madagascar periwinkle don't mix. The plant carries vinca alkaloids — the same chemical family as some chemotherapy drugs — which can cause anything from a mild upset to seizures and dangerously low blood pressure. Most cats find the leaves bitter and stop after a nibble, so serious poisonings are rare but not impossible.
What to watch for
Mild cases: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, depression, and loss of coordination. Heavier ingestions can produce tremors, seizures, low blood pressure (weakness, pale gums), and rarely coma. Watch the gums and energy level closely — those are the first hints that more than a nibble was swallowed.
Time window
Signs typically begin within a few hours of ingestion. Mild GI signs from a small ingestion usually resolve within 24 hours; severe cases may need 48 to 72 hours of supportive care.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (1-888-426-4435) the moment you confirm ingestion, even if your cat seems fine. Go in immediately for tremors, seizures, severe lethargy, pale or bluish gums, or any signs of weakness.
First aid at home
Remove any plant fragments from your cat's mouth and gently wipe the gums with a damp cloth, then call ASPCA APCC or your vet. Do not try to induce vomiting at home.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
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.
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
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.
Same cat verdict
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