What are the symptoms if a cat eats Wandering Jew?

Mild vomiting, drooling, and/or diarrhea, Skin redness or itch

⚠ Caution

Wandering Jew

Q: Is Wandering Jew toxic to cats?

Caution: potentially harmful. Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina) is a common, colorful trailing houseplant. While not severely toxic, it can cause mild discomfort for cats. The primary issue is the plant's sap, found in its leaves and stems, which contains compounds that can irritate a cat's skin and digestive system. The most common reaction occurs when a cat's skin comes into contact with the sap from a broken stem or leaf. This can cause a skin reaction called dermatitis, which may appear as redness, itchiness, or a rash. This is usually mild and localized to the area of contact. If a cat chews on the plant, the sap can irritate the mouth and stomach, leading to symptoms like drooling, pawing at the mouth, mild vomiting, or diarrhea. These signs are typically not serious and resolve on their own. If skin irritation or stomach upset continues, it is best to consult a veterinarian.

Tradescantia zebrina

Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina) is a common, colorful trailing houseplant. While not severely toxic, it can cause mild discomfort for cats. The primary issue is the plant's sap, found in its leaves and stems, which contains compounds that can irritate a cat's skin and digestive system. The most common reaction occurs when a cat's skin comes into contact with the sap from a broken stem or leaf. This can cause a skin reaction called dermatitis, which may appear as redness, itchiness, or a rash. This is usually mild and localized to the area of contact. If a cat chews on the plant, the sap can irritate the mouth and stomach, leading to symptoms like drooling, pawing at the mouth, mild vomiting, or diarrhea. These signs are typically not serious and resolve on their own. If skin irritation or stomach upset continues, it is best to consult a veterinarian.

Important Notes

Toxic compounds: irritant sap compounds throughout the plant; sap is released when leaves or stems are broken

Mechanism: sap causes contact dermatitis; ingestion causes direct GI mucosal irritation

Symptoms: skin redness or rash from contact; vomiting, diarrhea, drooling from ingestion

The trailing purple-silver leaves are visually appealing and accessible when plants hang — relocate away from cats

Symptoms are mild and usually self-limiting; rinse affected skin with water and consult your vet if GI symptoms persist

Potentially Toxic Parts

Sap

Stem

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Mild vomiting, drooling, and/or diarrhea

Gastrointestinal

Skin redness or itch

Dermal · Occurs after prolonged physical contact with the plant's sap

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.