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 Black Nightshade safe for cats?
Solanum nigrum
Black Nightshade is an herbaceous plant in the Solanaceae family containing solanine alkaloids that are harmful if ingested. It is widely considered a weed and is not typically cultivated as an indoor houseplant.
Black NightshadeEuropean Black NightshadeSolanum nigrum
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Herbaceous annual
- Care
- Low (often considered a weed)
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are unlikely to eat much black nightshade voluntarily, but the unripe green berries and leaves contain solanine plus atropine-like alkaloids — enough that even a curious nibble can cause real GI and neurological signs. The ASPCA lists every part of the plant as toxic to cats, with the green fruit considered the most dangerous.
What to watch for
Most common in cats are heavy drooling, loss of appetite, severe gastrointestinal upset, and diarrhea. Less common but more serious: drowsiness or CNS depression, confusion or behavioral change, weakness, dilated pupils, and a slow heart rate. Severity tracks dose, with green berries the worst offender.
Time window
The cited ASPCA listing doesn't give a specific onset window for cats; clinical signs from solanine-bearing Solanum species typically appear within several hours, but exact timing is not well documented for cats specifically.
When to call the vet
Call as soon as you suspect ingestion — don't wait for symptoms. Call immediately if your cat is showing any neurological signs (confusion, weakness, dilated pupils, slow heart rate) or persistent drooling and vomiting. Reach the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian.
First aid at home
Take any remaining plant material away from your cat and remove leaves or berries from their mouth if you can do so safely. Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian. Do not induce vomiting at home unless poison control or your vet directs you to.
Sources: ASPCA.
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, lethargy, dilated pupils, and in severe cases, tremors or cardiac arrhythmias.
Escalation note
Ingestion of any part of the plant can be dangerous due to solanine content. Please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.
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
Black Nightshade is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of solanine.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Solanum nigrum is an annual herb that is considered toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
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