English Ivy

Yes, English Ivy (Hedera helix) is toxic to cats. It contains triterpenoid saponins that cause gastrointestinal irritation when ingested.

Expect drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Your cat may hunch, hide, or resist being picked up. Drooling and vomiting are typically the first signs and usually appear within a few hours of ingestion.

Remove your cat from the plant and watch for vomiting, drooling, and signs of belly pain. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if vomiting persists more than a few hours, your cat refuses food or water, or you notice abdominal pain. Most cats recover within 24 hours.

The toxic triterpenoid saponins are present throughout the plant. No single part is documented as significantly more dangerous than another, so any ingestion — leaves, stems, or berries — warrants monitoring.

Yes, English Ivy (Hedera helix) is toxic to dogs. It contains triterpenoid saponins that can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, excessive drooling, and diarrhea if ingested.

Watch for drooling and hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain (your dog may pace, whine, or refuse to lie down comfortably), and reduced appetite. GI signs typically appear within a few hours of ingestion.

Contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435, especially if vomiting won't stop, your dog refuses food or water, or you notice signs of abdominal pain or unusual lethargy. Most dogs recover within 24 hours, but professional guidance is recommended.

English Ivy ingestion is usually mild but can cause significant discomfort. The toxic triterpenoid saponins primarily cause GI irritation rather than life-threatening effects, and most dogs recover within 24 hours; however, severe or prolonged symptoms warrant a vet visit.