Photina Red Leaf

Q: Is Photina Red Leaf toxic to cats?

Warning: Toxic. Photinia Red Leaf (Photinia spp.) is a decorative shrub known for its bright red new leaves. It is mildly toxic to cats and not safe for them to chew. The plant contains chemicals called cyanogenic glycosides, especially in its young red leaves and seeds. When a cat chews and digests the leaves or seeds, these chemicals break down and release cyanide. Cyanide stops cells from using oxygen properly. Fortunately, the amount of these chemicals in the plant is usually low. A cat would need to eat a large amount to get seriously sick. If your cat eats a small amount, you might see drooling, vomiting, or low energy. Eating larger amounts could cause breathing problems and weakness. Because the red leaves might look interesting to outdoor cats, it is best to keep them away. Please contact a veterinarian if your cat eats a noticeable amount of this plant.

Q: What are the symptoms if a cat eats Photina Red Leaf?

Vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling, Tachypnea (rapid breathing), severe respiratory distress, panting, and gasping for breath, Unusually bright red or pink gums (brick red mucous membranes), hypotension (low blood pressure), and cardiac arrhythmias, Dilated pupils, sudden collapse, muscle seizures, convulsions, coma, and death

Nandina Photina spp.

Photinia Red Leaf (Photinia spp.) is a decorative shrub known for its bright red new leaves. It is mildly toxic to cats and not safe for them to chew. The plant contains chemicals called cyanogenic glycosides, especially in its young red leaves and seeds. When a cat chews and digests the leaves or seeds, these chemicals break down and release cyanide. Cyanide stops cells from using oxygen properly. Fortunately, the amount of these chemicals in the plant is usually low. A cat would need to eat a large amount to get seriously sick. If your cat eats a small amount, you might see drooling, vomiting, or low energy. Eating larger amounts could cause breathing problems and weakness. Because the red leaves might look interesting to outdoor cats, it is best to keep them away. Please contact a veterinarian if your cat eats a noticeable amount of this plant.

Important Notes

Toxic compounds: cyanogenic glycosides (nandinin / p-glucosyloxymandelonitrile); young red leaves contain higher concentrations than mature green leaves

Mechanism: the cyanogenic glycoside releases HCN via beta-glucosidase, inhibiting cellular respiration at high doses

Symptoms: drooling, vomiting, lethargy with minor ingestion; heavy ingestion may cause laboured breathing and weakness

The attractive red foliage may make this shrub appealing to cats outdoors

Contact your vet if your cat ingests a significant amount of leaves

Potentially Toxic Parts

Leaf

Seed

Fruit

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling

Gastrointestinal · Rapidly, often within 10 to 60 minutes

Tachypnea (rapid breathing), severe respiratory distress, panting, and gasping for breath

Respiratory · Rapidly, often within 10 to 60 minutes

Unusually bright red or pink gums (brick red mucous membranes), hypotension (low blood pressure), and cardiac arrhythmias

Gastrointestinal · Rapidly, often within 10 to 60 minutes

Dilated pupils, sudden collapse, muscle seizures, convulsions, coma, and death

Neurological · Rapidly, often within 10 to 60 minutes

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.