Is Rubber Plant Toxic to Cats?

Ficus elastica

Ficus elastica produces a milky latex sap that irritates skin and mucous membranes. Chewing a leaf causes drooling, vomiting and mouth discomfort; sap on the coat causes a rash.

It is a large, glossy statement houseplant, and lower leaves at cat height are the ones that get chewed.

Which parts are dangerous

• sap
• leaves
• stems

What to watch for in the UK

• Very common large houseplant, often inherited with a flat.
• Sap stains fabric and is sticky — and transfers to fur.
• Trimmed stems leak sap onto floors.
• Wipe sap up and wash hands.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Wipe the mouth and coat with a damp cloth.
2. Phone your vet if drooling persists or skin is broken.
3. Watch for vomiting.

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).