American Bittersweet

Yes, American Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) is toxic to cats. All parts of the plant are considered potentially toxic, and ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal distress.

The most common signs are vomiting and diarrhea, which typically appear within hours of ingestion. Weakness can follow if a larger amount was eaten. Seizures are reported but rare — they indicate a serious ingestion and require emergency care. Plan to monitor your cat for 24–48 hours.

Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. If you witnessed your cat eating the berries, or if your cat is vomiting, has diarrhea, seems weak, or is unresponsive, do not wait — seek emergency care right away.

The ASPCA flags all parts of the plant as toxic, and berry ingestion specifically is cited as a trigger for immediate veterinary contact. The bright orange-red fruit capsules may attract a cat's attention, so berry access warrants particular concern.

Yes, American Bittersweet (Celastrus scandens) is toxic to dogs. All parts of the plant, including the berries and foliage, can cause gastrointestinal irritation if ingested.

The most common signs are vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. With larger doses, weakness can develop. Seizures are rare but possible and indicate a serious exposure requiring emergency care.

Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away, especially if your dog has vomited, has diarrhea, seems weak, or you know berries were eaten. Watch your dog for 24–48 hours after any suspected ingestion, as onset timing is not precisely documented.

Exact onset timing is not well documented for this plant. Plan to monitor your dog for 24–48 hours after any suspected ingestion, and contact a vet immediately if vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or seizures appear.