Is English Ivy Toxic to Cats or Dogs?
Hedera helix
Short answer
Yes. The referenced veterinary poison resources list English Ivy as toxic to both cats and dogs. Leaves and berries. Contains triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin).
Toxic Parts
Leaves and berries. Contains triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin).
Symptoms if Ingested
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Skin irritation from contact
What to Do Immediately
- 1Move the pet away from the plant and remove loose plant material from the mouth only if this can be done safely
- 2Do not induce vomiting or give food, milk, medication, or another home remedy unless a veterinarian or animal poison-control professional directs you to do so
- 3Identify the plant and note the approximate amount and time of exposure
- 4Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service promptly for advice tailored to the animal and exposure
- 5Seek emergency veterinary care now if breathing or swallowing is difficult, symptoms are severe, or the pet collapses or has a seizure
Emergency Contact
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
The ASPCA number is a United States service and a consultation fee may apply. Outside the U.S., contact a local veterinarian or animal poison-control service. If your pet has ingested any plant material, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Lower-risk alternatives
These alternatives are listed as non-toxic by the referenced source, but no houseplant should be treated as edible or completely risk-free.
For growing advice, see the English Ivy care guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is English Ivy toxic to cats?
Yes. The referenced veterinary poison resources list English Ivy as toxic to cats. Leaves and berries. Contains triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin). Possible signs include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea.
Is English Ivy toxic to dogs?
Yes. The referenced veterinary poison resources list English Ivy as toxic to dogs. Leaves and berries. Contains triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin). Possible signs include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea.
What should I do if my pet chews English Ivy?
Move the pet away from the plant and remove loose plant material from the mouth only if this can be done safely Do not induce vomiting or give food, milk, medication, or another home remedy unless a veterinarian or animal poison-control professional directs you to do so Identify the plant and note the approximate amount and time of exposure Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service promptly for advice tailored to the animal and exposure Seek emergency veterinary care now if breathing or swallowing is difficult, symptoms are severe, or the pet collapses or has a seizure
Sources and review
Content last reviewed: September 4, 2026
Toxicity information referenced from ASPCA and other publicly available pet safety databases. Always consult your veterinarian if your pet has ingested plant material.