✕ Toxic

Honeysuckle

Lonicera spp.

Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.) is a common garden vine or shrub whose berries and, to a lesser extent, leaves contain mildly toxic compounds including saponins and, in some species, cyanogenic glycosides. Cats are unlikely to consume large amounts, but berry ingestion can cause noticeable gastrointestinal upset.

Important Notes

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

Potentially Toxic Parts

Leaf

Flower

Fruit

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Difficulty Breathing (Dyspnea), Panting, or Rapid Heart Rate

Respiratory · Not specified.

Vomiting and Diarrhea

Gastrointestinal · Not specified in the provided text (typically acute).

Behavioral Reaction (Euphoria)

Neurological · Immediate.

Inflammation around the mouth, Drooling, or Itchiness

Dermal · Not specified.

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.