Is English Ivy Toxic to Cats and Dogs? (Hedera helix)
Quick answer
English Ivy, Hedera helix: listed as toxic to cats and dogs (triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin)). Signs, what to do, and how to confirm the species.
Updated 2026-09-10 · Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control
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Download on the App StoreWhat are the key facts?
- Scientific name: Hedera helix
- Also called: Branching Ivy, Glacier Ivy, Needlepoint Ivy, Sweetheart Ivy, California Ivy
- Toxic to cats: Yes
- Toxic to dogs: Yes
- Toxic principle: Triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin)
- Signs reported: Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries
Is English Ivy toxic to cats and dogs?
ASPCA Animal Poison Control lists English Ivy (Hedera helix) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is Triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin). Signs reported: Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries.
What to do if your pet ate it
If a pet may have eaten a plant, contact a veterinarian, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. Note what was eaten, how much and when, and bring a photo or a piece of the plant. Do not induce vomiting or give home remedies unless a professional tells you to.
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Confirm it is really this plant
Toxicity lists are by species, and many houseplants look alike. Photograph the whole plant, a leaf close-up and any flower in even light; the app reads the species first, then you can check it here. If the species is uncertain, act as if it were toxic.
FAQ
Is English Ivy safe for cats?
No. It is listed as toxic to cats; reported signs include vomiting.
Is English Ivy safe for dogs?
No. It is listed as toxic to dogs.
My pet only chewed a leaf. Should I still call?
Yes. Amount, size of the animal and the part eaten all matter, and the hotlines are staffed to judge that. Calling early is cheaper than waiting for signs.
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Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Controlwww.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/english-i
Compiled by the PlantLens editorial team
Every fact on this page is taken from the sources listed above; numbers and prices are copied from the source, and prices name the guide or auction and its date. Research and drafting were assisted by AI, and each claim was then checked against the cited sources. Checked 2026-09-10. We do not buy, sell or grade items; the app identifies what you photograph and points you to these references.