What are the symptoms if a cat eats Oyster Plant?

Drooling (hypersalivation) and vomiting, Skin irritation or rash

⚠ Caution

Oyster Plant

Q: Is Oyster Plant toxic to cats?

Caution: potentially harmful. Oyster Plant (Tradescantia spathacea), also known as Moses-in-the-Cradle, is a houseplant with vivid purple and green leaves. The ASPCA lists Tradescantia as toxic to cats, with dermatitis (skin irritation) as the documented clinical sign. Its sap acts as a contact irritant. If a broken leaf oozes sap onto a cat's skin or fur, it can cause localized redness, itching, or a rash. Chewing the plant may also cause mild mouth or stomach upset in some cats, though skin irritation from sap contact is the harm confirmed by authorities. Because of its colorful leaves, the oyster plant can attract curious cats. It is best to keep it out of reach. If your cat gets sap on its skin, wash the area gently with water to prevent a rash. Contact a veterinarian if your cat eats the plant and any drooling or stomach upset does not improve.

Tradescantia spathacea

Oyster Plant (Tradescantia spathacea), also known as Moses-in-the-Cradle, is a houseplant with vivid purple and green leaves. The ASPCA lists Tradescantia as toxic to cats, with dermatitis (skin irritation) as the documented clinical sign. Its sap acts as a contact irritant. If a broken leaf oozes sap onto a cat's skin or fur, it can cause localized redness, itching, or a rash. Chewing the plant may also cause mild mouth or stomach upset in some cats, though skin irritation from sap contact is the harm confirmed by authorities. Because of its colorful leaves, the oyster plant can attract curious cats. It is best to keep it out of reach. If your cat gets sap on its skin, wash the area gently with water to prevent a rash. Contact a veterinarian if your cat eats the plant and any drooling or stomach upset does not improve.

Important Notes

Toxic principle: the sap contains an unidentified irritant; the ASPCA does not list calcium oxalate for this plant

Mechanism: sap contact causes contact dermatitis (skin irritation), the clinical sign documented by the ASPCA

Symptoms: skin or eye contact with sap may cause redness, irritation, or rash; some cats may also drool or vomit after chewing the plant

The ornamental purple-and-green leaves make this a popular houseplant — keep it out of cat reach

Symptoms are usually mild; rinse any sap off skin with water and consult your vet if GI symptoms persist

Potentially Toxic Parts

Sap

Stem

Leaf

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Drooling (hypersalivation) and vomiting

Gastrointestinal · The sources do not specify an exact timeframe, but because it is an immediate physical irritant,

Skin irritation or rash

Dermal · The sources do not specify an exact timeframe,

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.