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 Showy Fleabane safe for cats?
Erigeron speciosus
Erigeron speciosus is a perennial flowering plant in the daisy family known for its showy, lavender-blue blooms. While popular in gardens, it is considered toxic to household pets if ingested.
Aspen FleabaneErigeron speciosusShowy Fleabane
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Clumping perennial
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats that nibble showy fleabane usually end up with mild stomach upset rather than a serious emergency. ASPCA classifies the genus as toxic because of irritant compounds in the leaves and flowers, which can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, and a little dermatitis if your cat brushed against the plant.
What to watch for
Most common: vomiting and diarrhea after chewing leaves or flower heads. Less common: drooling, mild redness or itchy patches where fur made contact with the plant. Signs are usually mild — more nuisance than crisis.
Time window
Exact timing isn't well documented for this species. ASPCA describes signs as mild and gastrointestinal, which typically appear within an hour or two of ingestion and resolve as the irritant clears the stomach.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) if vomiting or diarrhea persists more than a few hours, your cat refuses food or water, or you see lethargy that goes beyond a quick post-upset rest.
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
Gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and potential drooling.
Escalation note
Ingestion can cause discomfort; please contact your veterinarian if 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
Fleabane is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs by the ASPCA.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Detailed botanical description of Erigeron speciosus, including its growth habits and native range.
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
Christmas Rose
Helleborus niger
The Christmas Rose is a perennial flowering plant known for its winter blooms, but it contains cardiac glycosides that are harmful if ingested. It is considered toxic to both cats and dogs.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Golden Ragwort
Senecio species
Golden Ragwort is a flowering perennial known for its bright yellow blooms and foliage. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can cause significant health issues if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Iris
Iris species
Iris species are popular perennial garden plants known for their showy, complex flowers and sword-like foliage. They contain chemical compounds that can cause gastrointestinal irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Skunk Cabbage
Symplocarpus foetidus
Skunk Cabbage is a wetland-dwelling perennial known for its distinct odor and early spring emergence. It contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation upon ingestion.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.