What are the symptoms if a cat eats Jade Plant?

Vomiting, Loss of Balance / Incoordination / Ataxia, Depression / Lethargy, Slow Heart Rate (Bradycardia), Diarrhea

✕ Toxic

Jade Plant

Q: Is Jade Plant toxic to cats?

Warning: Toxic. Jade Plant (Crassula spp.) is a popular succulent with thick, shiny leaves. It is toxic to cats, even though the exact toxic compound has not been clearly identified. The plant can irritate the stomach and may also affect the nervous system. Cats may chew jade plants because the leaves are firm and easy to reach on a windowsill or shelf. All parts of the plant should be treated as unsafe. After eating jade plant, a cat may vomit, have diarrhea, lose interest in food, seem tired, or become unsteady. Keep jade plants out of reach, and contact a veterinarian if your cat eats any amount, especially if symptoms are repeated or your cat seems weak or wobbly.

Crassula arborescens

Jade Plant (Crassula spp.) is a popular succulent with thick, shiny leaves. It is toxic to cats, even though the exact toxic compound has not been clearly identified. The plant can irritate the stomach and may also affect the nervous system. Cats may chew jade plants because the leaves are firm and easy to reach on a windowsill or shelf. All parts of the plant should be treated as unsafe. After eating jade plant, a cat may vomit, have diarrhea, lose interest in food, seem tired, or become unsteady. Keep jade plants out of reach, and contact a veterinarian if your cat eats any amount, especially if symptoms are repeated or your cat seems weak or wobbly.

Important Notes

Toxic compounds: unidentified toxic principle; the plant's fleshy leaves and stems are the primary exposure source

Mechanism: unknown; likely involves direct GI irritation combined with a mild neurological component

Symptoms: vomiting, depression, unsteady gait (ataxia), slow heart rate; symptoms are usually mild

All parts of the plant are toxic — leaves, stems, and roots

Seek veterinary advice if your cat shows signs of unsteadiness or lethargy after contact with the plant

Potentially Toxic Parts

Stem

Leaf

Entire Plant

Flower

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Slow Heart Rate (Bradycardia)

Cardiac · Not explicitly specified.

Vomiting

Gastrointestinal · Acute (Clinical signs typically appear shortly after ingestion).

Loss of Balance / Incoordination / Ataxia

Neurological · Acute.

Depression / Lethargy

Neurological · Acute.

Diarrhea

Gastrointestinal · Acute.

Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.