Is Wisteria Toxic to Cats?

Wisteria sinensis

Wisteria contains lectins and a glycoside concentrated in the seeds and pods. Chewing a pod causes vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain; the flowers are much less of a problem.

It is a popular UK climber over doorways and pergolas, and the pods burst and scatter in autumn — exactly where a cat walks.

Which parts are dangerous

• seeds
• pods
• bark
• leaves

What to watch for in the UK

• Climbers over front doors and pergolas are common.
• Pods drop in September and October.
• Sweep up pods on paths and patios.
• Tendrils and pods are attractive to a playful cat.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Phone your vet and say whether it was a pod or seed.
2. Take the pod with you.
3. Watch for vomiting and diarrhoea.

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).