Honeysuckle

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Difficulty Breathing (Dyspnea), Panting, or Rapid Heart Rate Not specified. · These are listed as potential symptoms for cats that have ingested poisonous plants found on the common toxicity list, which includes Honeysuckle.Euphoria (Specific to Tatarian Honeysuckle)
2. 2
   Vomiting and Diarrhea Not specified in the provided text (typically acute). · The ASPCA Pet Health Insurance guide lists Honeysuckle as a common plant poisonous to cats and notes that general signs of plant poisoning include vomiting and diarrhea. The flowers are noted to have a "sweet smell that can be tempting for cats."
3. 3
   Behavioral Reaction (Euphoria) Immediate. · Tatarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) is considered safe and is used as an alternative to catnip. It produces a similar euphoric behavioral reaction in cats and is often found in cat toys or wood products.Important Note on Varieties: Certain species, such as Honeysuckle Fuchsia, are explicitly listed as non-toxic to cats4. However, because "Honeysuckle" appears on general toxic plant lists1, cat owners should exercise caution and ensure they have identified the specific species before allowing their cat access.
4. 4
   Inflammation around the mouth, Drooling, or Itchiness Not specified. · Toxic plants can cause inflammation around the mouth and skin irritation, leading to the cat pawing at their mouth or face.Respiratory and Cardiac Distress (General Potential)

Important notes

Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.) is a common garden vine or shrub. Some parts, especially the berries, can be mildly toxic to cats if eaten. The plant may contain saponins and, in some species, compounds that can release small amounts of cyanide-like chemicals. Cats usually do not eat large amounts, but berries can be easier to swallow than leaves or stems. A cat that eats honeysuckle berries or leaves may vomit, have diarrhea, drool, or seem uncomfortable. Keep fallen berries cleaned up and do not let cats chew the plant. Contact a veterinarian if your cat eats a large amount, symptoms repeat, or your cat seems weak.

• Toxic compounds: saponins and trace cyanogenic glycosides in berries; leaves carry lower concentrations
• Mechanism: saponins disrupt the GI lining; cyanogenic compounds may contribute mild systemic effects at higher doses
• Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy; typically mild and self-limiting
• Berries are the highest-risk part — the attractive red or black berries may appeal to curious cats
• Symptoms are usually mild; contact your vet if your cat ingests a significant number of berries