Jade Plant

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Slow Heart Rate (Bradycardia) Not explicitly specified. · While less common than vomiting or ataxia, a slowed heart rate has been noted as a potential rare side effect of ingestion.
2. 2
   Vomiting Acute (Clinical signs typically appear shortly after ingestion). · This is the most consistent symptom reported. The plant is considered an irritant to the stomach lining.Incoordination (Ataxia)
3. 3
   Loss of Balance / Incoordination / Ataxia Acute. · Cats may appear "drunk," wobbly, or unable to walk in a straight line. This neurological presentation distinguishes Jade Plant toxicity from simple gastrointestinal irritants.Depression (Lethargy)
4. 4
   Depression / Lethargy Acute. · Affected cats may become unusually inactive, hide, or be slow to respond to stimuli.Bradycardia (Rare)
5. 5
   Diarrhea Acute. · This symptom may accompany vomiting, though it is cited less frequently than the neurological signs (depression/ataxia) associated with this specific plant.

Important notes

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.

• 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