Cats
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
cat safety reference
Is Mayapple safe for cats?
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
What this means for your cat
Mayapple is toxic to cats. Every part of the plant — leaves, roots, unripe fruit — contains podophyllin, a resin that's irritating to skin and damaging if absorbed in quantity. Cats rarely chew enough to be in serious danger, but the GI signs alone can leave a cat miserable for a day.
What to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea typically come first, often paired with abdominal pain, lethargy, and panting. Direct skin contact with the plant's sap can also cause redness or skin ulcers. Severe ingestions (rare in cats) can progress to coma — watch the energy level closely.
Time window
Specific onset timing isn't well documented for cats, but GI signs typically appear within hours of ingestion. Most cats recover within 1 to 24 hours of supportive care; serious cases may require longer.
When to call the vet
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control (1-888-426-4435) or your vet for any confirmed ingestion. Bring your cat in immediately if you see persistent vomiting, severe lethargy or collapse, breathing changes, or skin ulcers.
First aid at home
Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and rinse the lips and gums with cool water. If sap touched the skin or fur, gently wash with mild pet shampoo to prevent further absorption. Then call your vet or ASPCA APCC.
Sources: ASPCA, NC State Extension.
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.
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.
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