Cats & Dogs
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
Pet safety reference
Japanese Privet
Ligustrum japonicum
Ligustrum japonicum is a popular evergreen shrub often used for hedging, but it contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested. It is considered toxic to both cats and dogs.
Japanese privetLigustrum japonicumPrivetWax-leaf privet
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Shrub
- Care
- Low
Safety status
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
Vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center if you suspect your cat has consumed any part of this plant.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and potential lethargy.
Escalation note
Consumption of the berries or leaves may cause digestive distress. Always consult a veterinarian if your dog shows signs of illness after exposure to 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
Privet is listed as toxic to cats and dogs, causing gastrointestinal irritation.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Ligustrum japonicum is a large evergreen shrub that is widely used in landscapes but noted for its toxicity to pets.
Questions about Japanese Privet
Is Japanese Privet toxic to cats?
Yes, Japanese Privet (Ligustrum japonicum) is considered toxic to cats. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress, and even small amounts of any part of the plant can trigger symptoms.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating Japanese Privet?
The most common signs are vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Less commonly, cats may show incoordination or an increased heart rate. Death is rare but has been reported with very large ingestions.
What should I do if my cat ate Japanese Privet?
Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away. Mild GI signs that resolve quickly may not require an emergency visit, but a same-day call is wise — especially if your cat ate a large amount or is showing wobbliness or a racing heartbeat.
How quickly do symptoms appear after a cat eats Japanese Privet?
Exact onset and duration are not well documented for this plant. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, or a rapid heartbeat, and contact your vet promptly rather than waiting to see how symptoms develop.
Is Japanese Privet toxic to dogs?
Yes, Japanese Privet (Ligustrum japonicum) is considered toxic to dogs. Both the berries and leaves contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating Japanese Privet?
The most common signs are vomiting and diarrhea. Less commonly, dogs may show incoordination or an increased heart rate. Death is rare but has been reported with very large ingestions.
What should I do if my dog ate Japanese Privet?
Monitor your dog closely and call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 if you see persistent vomiting, wobbliness, a fast or irregular heartbeat, or if a large amount of plant material was eaten. Mild GI signs that resolve on their own may not require an emergency visit.
Are the berries or leaves of Japanese Privet more dangerous to dogs?
Both the berries and leaves are considered toxic and can cause digestive distress. The exact onset and duration of symptoms are not well documented, so any confirmed ingestion — particularly of the berries — warrants close monitoring.
Often compared with
Same safety verdict
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