What are the symptoms if a cat eats String of Pearls?

Vomiting and diarrhea, Drooling, Lethargy, Irritation of the skin and eyes

⚠ Caution

String of Pearls

Q: Is String of Pearls toxic to cats?

Caution: potentially harmful. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a popular trailing succulent whose bead-like leaves make it visually appealing, but it is toxic to cats. The entire plant, including its sap, contains compounds that can cause internal and external irritation. The plant is believed to contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are known to be harmful to the liver, although the exact toxins have not been fully identified. Additionally, the plant's sap can irritate a cat's skin and eyes on contact. Because the round leaves are tempting for cats to bat at and chew, this plant poses a significant risk. If a cat eats this plant, it may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and noticeable tiredness or lethargy. Skin contact might cause redness or itching. Due to the risk of liver damage and other symptoms, place this plant completely out of your cat's reach. If you suspect your cat has eaten any part of it, contact your veterinarian.

Senecio rowleyanus

String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a popular trailing succulent whose bead-like leaves make it visually appealing, but it is toxic to cats. The entire plant, including its sap, contains compounds that can cause internal and external irritation. The plant is believed to contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are known to be harmful to the liver, although the exact toxins have not been fully identified. Additionally, the plant's sap can irritate a cat's skin and eyes on contact. Because the round leaves are tempting for cats to bat at and chew, this plant poses a significant risk. If a cat eats this plant, it may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and noticeable tiredness or lethargy. Skin contact might cause redness or itching. Due to the risk of liver damage and other symptoms, place this plant completely out of your cat's reach. If you suspect your cat has eaten any part of it, contact your veterinarian.

Important Notes

Toxic compounds: pyrrolizidine alkaloids and irritant compounds throughout the plant; the round bead-like leaves may attract cats

Mechanism: PAs are metabolised to reactive pyrroles in the liver, causing hepatocellular necrosis; cumulative damage can lead to liver failure

Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy; chronic exposure may cause weight loss and jaundice as liver damage accumulates

The dangling bead-like appearance is particularly appealing to cats — relocate to spaces cats cannot access

Seek veterinary care if significant ingestion occurs

Potentially Toxic Parts

Sap

Leaf

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Vomiting and diarrhea

Gastrointestinal · Not explicitly specified in the sources.

Drooling

Gastrointestinal · Not explicitly specified in the sources.

Lethargy

Neurological · Not explicitly specified in the sources.

Irritation of the skin and eyes

Dermal · Not explicitly specified (likely immediate or shortly after contact).

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.