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.
cat safety reference
Is Autumn Olive safe for cats?
Elaeagnus umbellata
Autumn Olive is a hardy, deciduous shrub known for its silvery foliage and edible berries. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though large ingestions of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause minor digestive discomfort.
Autumn OliveElaeagnus umbellataJapanese SilverberrySpreading Oleaster
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are not at risk from Autumn Olive — NC State Extension rates Elaeagnus umbellata as non-toxic, and no feline poisoning symptoms are documented. The shrub's small silver-backed leaves and reddish berries don't typically attract cats.
Sources: NC State Extension.
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 typically expected; however, consumption of large amounts of fibrous plant matter may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea.
Escalation note
This plant is considered non-toxic. If your cat consumes a large quantity and shows signs of distress, contact your veterinarian for guidance.
Bring it home
Autumn Oliveis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
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Source evidence
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Elaeagnus umbellata is a deciduous shrub that produces edible fruit and is widely naturalized.
Questions about Autumn Olive
Is Autumn Olive toxic to cats?
Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) is considered non-toxic to cats. It is classified as generally safe, meaning it is not expected to cause poisoning or serious harm if your cat chews on the foliage or berries.
What happens if my cat eats Autumn Olive berries or leaves?
Symptoms are not typically expected, but consuming large amounts of fibrous plant material may occasionally cause mild vomiting or diarrhea. Most cats that nibble on Autumn Olive will show no ill effects at all.
Should I call my vet if my cat ate a lot of Autumn Olive?
If your cat ate a small amount, monitoring at home is reasonable — non-toxic does not mean it is beneficial to eat in quantity, and large ingestions of fibrous plant matter can cause temporary GI upset. If your cat is vomiting repeatedly, lethargic, or seems distressed after eating a large quantity, contact your veterinarian.
What parts of the Autumn Olive plant are safe for cats?
The plant as a whole — including leaves, berries, and stems — is considered non-toxic to cats. That said, no part of the plant is intended as cat food, and eating significant quantities of any fibrous plant material can cause minor digestive discomfort regardless of toxicity.
Same cat verdict
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