Cats & Dogs
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
Pet safety reference
Swedish Ivy
Plectranthus verticillatus
Swedish Ivy is a popular, fast-growing trailing houseplant known for its glossy, scalloped leaves and ease of care. It is considered non-toxic to pets, though ingestion of large amounts of plant material may cause minor digestive upset.
Creeping CharliePlectranthus australisPlectranthus verticillatusSwedish Begonia
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Trailing
- 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
None typically expected; however, consumption of large quantities may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea due to the fibrous nature of the plant.
Escalation note
This plant is considered non-toxic. If your cat consumes a significant amount and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
None typically expected; however, consumption of large quantities may lead to mild vomiting or diarrhea due to the fibrous nature of the plant.
Escalation note
This plant is considered non-toxic. If your dog consumes a significant amount and shows persistent signs of distress, contact your veterinarian.
Bring it home
Swedish Ivyis 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
Swedish Ivy is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Plectranthus verticillatus is a trailing perennial often grown as a houseplant for its attractive foliage.
Questions about Swedish Ivy
Is Swedish Ivy toxic to cats?
Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus) is considered non-toxic to cats. It is classified as generally safe, meaning it does not contain compounds known to cause poisoning in cats.
What happens if my cat eats Swedish Ivy?
Most cats will experience no symptoms at all. If your cat eats a large amount, the fibrous plant material may cause mild vomiting or diarrhea, which typically resolves on its own.
Should I be worried if my cat chewed on my Swedish Ivy?
A nibble or small amount is very unlikely to cause any problem. Monitor your cat for persistent vomiting or diarrhea; if symptoms do not resolve or your cat seems distressed, contact your veterinarian.
Does 'non-toxic' mean Swedish Ivy is safe for cats to eat freely?
Non-toxic means it won't poison your cat, but that doesn't make it a suitable food. Large quantities of any plant material can cause GI upset due to fiber, so it's still best to discourage your cat from snacking on it regularly.
Is Swedish Ivy toxic to dogs?
Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus) is considered non-toxic to dogs. It is classified as generally safe, meaning it is not expected to cause poisoning if your dog chews on or eats it.
What happens if a dog eats Swedish Ivy?
Most dogs will have no reaction at all. Eating a large quantity of the fibrous plant material may cause mild, temporary vomiting or diarrhea due to the bulk rather than any toxic compound.
Should I call the vet if my dog ate Swedish Ivy?
A small nibble does not require a vet call. If your dog ate a large amount and shows persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress that do not resolve within a few hours, contact your veterinarian.
Does non-toxic mean Swedish Ivy is safe for dogs to eat freely?
Non-toxic means the plant does not contain compounds known to poison dogs, but that does not make it a safe snack. Large ingestions of any plant material can irritate a dog's digestive tract, so it is best to discourage chewing on houseplants altogether.
Same genus
More from the Plectranthus genus
Candle Plant
Plectranthus coleoides
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.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Prostrate Coleus
Plectranthus oetendahlii
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.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Lipstick Plant
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The Lipstick Plant is a popular trailing houseplant known for its tubular, bright red flowers that resemble lipstick tubes. It is considered non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for households with cats and dogs.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Shrimp Cactus
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The Shrimp Cactus is a popular, trailing epiphytic cactus known for its unique, segmented stems and vibrant, pendulous flowers. It is considered safe for households with pets, though its fibrous nature may cause minor digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Burro's Tail
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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.
Flame Violet
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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.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Same growing conditions
Plants for the same room
Hoya
Hoya pubicalyx
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Not yet rated for cats.
Not yet rated for dogs.
Spider Plant
Chlorophytum comosum
The spider plant is a popular, easy-to-care-for houseplant known for its arching, grass-like foliage and trailing plantlets. It is widely considered safe for households with pets, though large ingestions of fibrous material may occasionally cause mild digestive upset.
Generally safe for cats & dogs.
Cuban Oregano
Coleus amboinicus
The Bread and Butter plant is a succulent herb known for its aromatic, fleshy leaves often used in culinary applications. While popular as a kitchen herb, it contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Jade Plant
Crassula argentea
The Jade Plant is a popular succulent known for its thick, woody stems and fleshy, oval-shaped leaves. While aesthetically pleasing, it contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.