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Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum
Ripe red tomato flesh (Solanum lycopersicum) is not significantly toxic to cats in small amounts, but the green parts of the tomato plant — leaves, stems, sprouts, and unripe green tomatoes — contain solanine and tomatine (glycoalkaloids). These decrease as the fruit ripens to red, which is why ripe tomato flesh carries minimal risk.
Important Notes
Avoid: all green plant parts — leaves, stems, vines, and unripe tomatoes contain solanine and tomatine
Ripe red flesh: safe in very small amounts; no nutritional benefit for cats and high acid content may cause mild upset
Symptoms if green parts ingested: drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness; severe cases cause bradycardia or CNS depression
Never feed tomato sauce, ketchup, or canned tomato products — typically contain garlic, onion, and salt
Contact your vet if your cat eats significant amounts of green tomato plant material
Potentially Toxic Parts
Stem
Leaf
Fruit
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Slowed heart rate (bradycardia)
Cardiac · Occurs after the systemic absorption of a large toxic dose.
Vomiting and diarrhea
Gastrointestinal · Within a few hours of ingestion.
Lethargy, weakness, and confusion
Neurological · Progresses after gastrointestinal signs (usually within a few to several hours).
Dilated pupils (mydriasis)
Neurological · A few hours after ingestion.
Hypersalivation (Drooling)
Gastrointestinal · Within a few hours of ingestion.
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.