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.
Sources
cat safety reference
Is Autograph Tree safe for cats?
Clusia major
Clusia major is a tropical evergreen shrub known for its thick, leathery leaves and unique ability to grow as an epiphyte. It is commonly kept as a houseplant for its architectural foliage, but it contains compounds that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Autograph TreeBalsam AppleClusia majorClusia roseaPitch Apple
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Upright shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats that chew Autograph Tree are exposed to the plant's terpenes — the resinous oils responsible for clusia's sticky sap. ASPCA classifies it as toxic to cats; most cases are limited to digestive upset, but the fruit is the most concentrated source of the toxin and is the part most likely to push beyond a stomach ache.
What to watch for
Drooling and a stretch of mouth-pawing usually come first, followed by vomiting and a sluggish, off-food cat. A cat that ate fruit may show more pronounced GI signs; in heavier ingestions, wobbliness or tremors are a flag because terpenes can affect the central nervous system in larger doses.
Time window
Exact timing is not well documented; mild GI signs typically appear within a few hours and resolve within 24 hours with supportive care.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 if vomiting doesn't stop after the first episode, your cat refuses food for more than one meal, or you saw fruit get eaten. Wobbliness, tremors, or yellow-tinged gums warrant an immediate visit.
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
Drooling, vomiting, oral irritation, and difficulty swallowing.
Escalation note
Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal distress. Please contact your veterinarian 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
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Clusia rosea is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs, causing gastrointestinal irritation.
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted botanical name and distribution data for Clusia major.
Questions about Autograph Tree
Is the Autograph Tree (Clusia major) toxic to cats?
Yes, the Autograph Tree is potentially toxic to cats. It contains compounds that can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if any part of the plant is ingested.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating an Autograph Tree?
Expect drooling and mouth-pawing first, followed by vomiting and a sluggish, off-food cat. If your cat ate fruit or a larger amount, watch for more pronounced GI signs; wobbliness or tremors can occur in heavier ingestions because terpenes in the plant may affect the central nervous system.
What should I do if my cat ate an Autograph Tree?
Remove your cat from the plant and rinse their mouth with water if they'll allow it. Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 if vomiting doesn't stop after the first episode, your cat refuses food for more than one meal, you saw fruit get eaten, or you notice wobbliness, tremors, or yellow-tinged gums — those warrant an immediate visit.
How long does it take for Autograph Tree poisoning symptoms to appear in cats?
Exact timing is not well documented, but mild GI signs typically appear within a few hours of ingestion and usually resolve within 24 hours with supportive care. Fruit ingestion or larger amounts may produce more serious or prolonged symptoms.
Same cat verdict
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