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
Mayapple
Podophyllum peltatum
American Mandrake is a perennial woodland plant known for its umbrella-like leaves and single white flower. It contains podophyllotoxin, which is highly irritating and potentially dangerous if ingested by pets.
American MayappleMayapplePodophyllum peltatumWild Mandrake
- Light
- Part shade to full shade
- Habit
- Rhizomatous perennial
- 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
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and potential lethargy.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal distress. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if you suspect ingestion.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, and signs of abdominal discomfort.
Escalation note
The plant contains compounds that can cause systemic irritation. Seek veterinary care promptly if your dog 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
Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Podophyllum peltatum is a native perennial that is toxic if ingested.
Questions about Mayapple
Is Mayapple toxic to cats?
Yes, Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) is considered potentially toxic to cats. It contains podophyllotoxin, a highly irritating compound that can cause significant gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating Mayapple?
Expect drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain as the first signs, often accompanied by lethargy and panting. Direct skin contact with the sap can also cause redness or skin ulcers. In rare severe cases, a cat may progress to collapse or coma, so monitor energy level closely.
What should I do if my cat ate a Mayapple plant?
Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and rinse the lips and gums with cool water. If sap got on the skin or fur, gently wash it off with mild pet shampoo to limit absorption. Then call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or your vet immediately — don't wait for symptoms to appear.
How quickly do Mayapple poisoning symptoms appear in cats, and how long do they last?
GI signs like vomiting and diarrhea typically appear within hours of ingestion. Most cats recover within 1 to 24 hours with supportive care, though serious cases may require longer treatment. Bring your cat in right away if you see persistent vomiting, severe lethargy, collapse, or breathing changes.
Is Mayapple toxic to dogs?
Yes, Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum) is toxic to dogs. It contains podophyllotoxin, a compound that causes systemic irritation, and any ingestion warrants a call to your vet.
What are the symptoms if a dog eats Mayapple?
Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, and abdominal discomfort. Skin contact with the sap can cause redness or ulcers around the muzzle. In rare severe cases, extreme weakness or coma can occur — get to a vet well before that point.
What should I do if my dog ate Mayapple?
Remove any remaining plant material from your dog's mouth, save a leaf or piece of fruit for identification, and rinse the muzzle if sap is visible. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet directs you to.
How quickly do symptoms appear after a dog eats Mayapple, and how long do they last?
GI signs typically appear within hours of ingestion. Most dogs recover fully within 1 to 24 hours with supportive care, though large ingestions may require longer treatment. Bring your dog in immediately if vomiting persists more than an hour or two, or if you see bloody stool, breathing changes, or unusual lethargy.
Same safety verdict
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