Ficus / Weeping Fig

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Contact Dermatitis (Skin redness, irritation, or swelling) Acute (Upon contact with the sap). · The milky sap found throughout the plant can cause redness, itchiness, and irritation if it touches the cat's skin. This is a distinguishing feature of Ficus toxicity compared to many other houseplants.
2. 2
   Vomiting and Diarrhea Acute (Shortly after ingestion). · Ingestion of the leaves or stems introduces the irritating sap to the stomach, leading to vomiting and loose stools. While uncomfortable, these symptoms are generally self-limiting.
3. 3
   Excessive Drooling (Hypersalivation) and Oral Pain Immediate (Upon chewing). · The proteolytic enzymes (ficin) in the sap break down proteins and irritate the mucous membranes of the mouth, causing the cat to drool excessively or paw at its mouth due to the burning sensation.

Important notes

Ficus plants, including Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina), are common indoor trees. They are not safe for cats to chew, because the leaves and stems release an irritating milky sap when damaged. The sap contains ficin and psoralens, two plant compounds that can irritate the mouth, stomach, and skin. Ficin can bother sensitive tissues, while psoralens may make skin more reactive to light. Repeated contact with ficus sap can also make some animals more sensitive over time. If a cat chews ficus leaves or touches the sap, possible signs include drooling, mouth pain, vomiting, diarrhea, skin redness, itching, or swelling. Fallen leaves can still be a chewing risk. Keep ficus plants and dropped leaves away from cats, and contact a veterinarian if symptoms are persistent, spreading, or more than mild.

• Main hazard: Milky ficus sap can irritate the mouth, stomach, and skin; repeated contact may make reactions stronger.
• Symptoms: Drooling, mouth pain, vomiting, diarrhea, skin redness, itching, or swelling after sap contact.
• Exposure risk: Fallen leaves can still be chewed, and stressed ficus trees may drop leaves often.
• Action: Keep the plant and fallen leaves away from cats, and call a vet if symptoms spread, persist, or seem more than mild.