Is Deadly Nightshade Toxic to Cats?

Atropa belladonna

Atropa belladonna contains atropine and related tropane alkaloids. The shiny black berries are attractive, and even a few can cause dilated pupils, a racing heart, agitation, seizures and death.

It grows in hedgerows, woodland edges and disturbed ground across the UK, particularly on chalk and limestone. Cats that roam are the ones at risk.

Which parts are dangerous

• berries
• leaves
• roots

What to watch for in the UK

• Found in hedgerows and woodland, especially on chalk soils.
• Berries ripen to black in late summer and autumn.
• Also sold rarely as an ornamental — avoid entirely.
• Teach children not to pick hedge berries; cats need the same warning.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Emergency vet immediately.
2. Describe the berries and how many were likely eaten.
3. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed.

Take a photo of the plant, and a cutting if you can do it safely — identification is half of the vet's decision. Out of hours, use your practice's emergency number. This page explains risk; it cannot diagnose your cat and it contains no home treatments.

If your cat has vomited after eating a plant, see the cat vomiting guide and, if there is blood, vomiting blood. For a general red-flag checklist, use sick cat symptoms. If the worry is food rather than a plant, the can cats eat guide covers 36 everyday foods.

Related plants

Browse the full UK plant checklist (72 plants).