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 Clearweed safe for cats?
Pilea pumila
Clearweed is a tender, herbaceous annual plant often found in moist, shaded environments. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive discomfort.
Canadian ClearweedClearweedPilea pumila
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Habit
- Herbaceous annual
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are safe around clearweed — the ASPCA lists this Pilea as non-toxic to cats, and no toxic principle is identified. A nibbling cat will not be poisoned by the plant itself, though eating a large amount of leafy material can occasionally cause mild stomach upset that resolves on its own.
Sources: ASPCA (no first-aid guidance).
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 ingestion, mild vomiting or diarrhea may occur due to the fibrous nature of the plant.
Escalation note
Generally considered safe. If your cat consumes a large amount and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Clearweedis generally pet-safe in ordinary household exposure. If you’d like one for your space, here’s a starting point.
Shop on AmazonSome links earn us a small commission. They never affect our safety classifications.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Clearweed is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Pilea pumila is a native herbaceous plant that thrives in moist, shaded woodland habitats.
Questions about Clearweed
Is clearweed toxic to cats?
No, clearweed (Pilea pumila) 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 or eats it.
What happens if a cat eats clearweed?
Most cats will have no reaction at all. In rare cases where a cat consumes a large amount, the fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea, but serious symptoms are not expected.
Should I call the vet if my cat ate clearweed?
A small nibble does not require a vet call. If your cat ate a large quantity and is showing persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress that do not resolve quickly, contact your veterinarian.
Does non-toxic mean clearweed is safe for cats to eat in any amount?
Non-toxic means clearweed is not poisonous to cats, but that does not make it a safe snack in large quantities. Eating significant amounts of any plant can cause GI upset in cats due to the fibrous material, so it is best to discourage the habit.
Same cat verdict
Related plants for cats
Chervil
Anthriscus cerefolium
Chervil is a delicate, aromatic herb in the parsley family often used in culinary applications. It is considered safe for pets, though large ingestions of any fibrous plant material may cause minor digestive upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cosmos
Cosmos bipinnatus
Garden cosmos is a daisy-like annual usually treated as a pet-safe flowering option, though any large plant ingestion can still cause mild stomach upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Dwarf Date Palm
Phoenix acaulis
The Dwarf Date Palm is a slow-growing, stemless palm species native to the grasslands of India. It is widely appreciated for its compact, architectural foliage that mimics the appearance of larger date palms in a miniature form.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
African Violet
Saintpaulia spp.
African Violets are popular, low-growing flowering houseplants known for their fuzzy leaves and vibrant blooms. They are considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.