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 Flame Violet safe for cats?
Episcia reptans
Also known as Episcia cupreata
Flame Violet is a popular trailing houseplant known for its vibrant, textured foliage and tubular flowers. It is considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs, making it a safe choice for pet-friendly households.
CyrtudeiraEpisciaEpiscia cultivarEpiscia cupreataEpiscia reptansPeacock PlantPink Brocade
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Trailing
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are safe around the Flame Violet — ASPCA lists Episcia (the gesneriad genus that includes Flame Violet and Flame African Violet) as non-toxic to cats. The fuzzy leaves and bright blooms can be tempting to bat at, but no toxic principle is on file.
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. In rare cases of large ingestions, mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea may occur due to the fibrous nature of the plant material.
Escalation note
This plant is non-toxic. If your cat consumes a large amount and shows persistent signs of discomfort, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Flame Violetis 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
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Flame Violet is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Plants of the World Online (Kew)
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted botanical classification for Episcia reptans.
Questions about Flame Violet
Is Flame Violet toxic to cats?
No, Flame Violet (Episcia reptans) is non-toxic to cats. It is considered safe for pet-friendly households, though non-toxic does not mean cats should be encouraged to eat it.
What happens if my cat eats a Flame Violet plant?
Flame Violet is non-toxic, so no poisoning is expected. In rare cases where a cat ingests a large amount, the fibrous plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea.
How much Flame Violet would make a cat sick?
Small nibbles are very unlikely to cause any reaction. Only large ingestions carry a low risk of temporary GI upset from the plant's fibrous material — not from any toxic compound. The plant contains no known toxins.
My cat ate some Flame Violet and seems uncomfortable — should I call the vet?
If your cat ate a small amount, monitor for any vomiting or diarrhea, which should resolve on its own. If signs persist or your cat consumed a large quantity and remains uncomfortable, contact your veterinarian to be safe.
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
Burro's Tail
Sedum morganianum
Burro's Tail is a popular trailing succulent known for its dense, fleshy, blue-green leaves that resemble braided tails. 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.
Candle Plant
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The Candle Plant is a popular trailing ornamental known for its variegated, fuzzy foliage and aromatic leaves. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
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Lipstick Plant
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Prostrate Coleus
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Prostrate Coleus is a trailing, shade-loving plant often grown for its attractive, variegated foliage. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause mild digestive discomfort.
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