Cats
Generally safeConsulted references do not classify the plant as toxic for that pet type, while still allowing for mild GI upset if large amounts are chewed.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
cat safety reference
Is Buttercup Squash safe for cats?
Cucurbita maxima
Buttercup squash is a popular winter squash variety known for its sweet, nutty flavor and dense, orange flesh. It is considered safe for pets, though large ingestions of raw plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Cucurbita maximaCucurbita maxima cv buttercupWinter Squash
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Vining
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Buttercup Squash is safe for cats — ASPCA classifies Cucurbita maxima 'buttercup' as non-toxic to cats, no toxic principle on file. Cats rarely take an interest in raw squash, but plain cooked flesh is harmless and a stolen bite of rind or vine isn't a poisoning concern; brief stomach upset from raw fibrous material is the only typical aftermath.
Sources: ASPCA.
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
None expected, though large consumption of raw fibrous material may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
Generally considered non-toxic. If your cat consumes a large amount and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Buttercup Squashis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
Shop on AmazonSome links earn us a small commission. They never affect our safety classifications.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Buttercup squash is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted botanical classification for Cucurbita maxima.
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
Bullbrier
Smilax rotundifolia
Bullbrier is a hardy, woody vine native to North America, often recognized by its prickly stems and rounded leaves. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Bur Gourd
Cucumis anguria
Bur Gourd is a vining plant in the cucumber family known for its small, spiky, edible fruits. It is generally considered safe for household pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Casaba Melon
Cucumis melo
Casaba melon is a variety of muskmelon known for its sweet, pale flesh and thick, wrinkled rind. While the plant is considered non-toxic, ingestion of large amounts of fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cat Brier
Smilax glabra
Cat Brier is a hardy, woody vine known for its tough stems and foliage. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.