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 American Bittersweet safe for cats?
Celastrus scandens
American Bittersweet is a woody vine native to North America, often recognized for its vibrant orange and red fruit capsules. While ornamental, all parts of the plant are considered toxic to pets if ingested.
American BittersweetCelastrus scandensClimbing Bittersweet
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Climbing vine
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
American Bittersweet is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. The bright red-orange berries are the most concentrated source of trouble, but the stems and foliage carry the same alkaloids and can leave a cat sick.
What to watch for
Most cats show vomiting and diarrhea first. Weakness can follow if more was eaten. Seizures are reported but rare — they signal a serious dose and warrant emergency care.
Time window
ASPCA does not publish a specific onset window — exact timing not well documented. Owners typically see GI signs within hours of ingestion; plan to monitor for 24–48 hours.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) any time you see vomiting, diarrhea, or weakness — and call immediately if your cat seizes, becomes unresponsive, or you saw berry ingestion.
Sources: ASPCA (no first-aid guidance).
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 potential gastrointestinal distress.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to significant stomach upset; contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your cat has consumed any part of this plant.
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
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Celastrus scandens is a deciduous woody vine that produces showy orange-red fruit capsules, noted for its toxicity if ingested.
Questions about American Bittersweet
Is American Bittersweet toxic to cats?
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.
What symptoms will a cat show after eating American Bittersweet?
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.
What should I do if my cat ate American Bittersweet?
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.
Are the berries of American Bittersweet more dangerous to cats than other parts of the plant?
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.
Same cat verdict
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