Is English Ivy Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
English Ivy is toxic to cats and dogs. This popular houseplant and ground cover, known scientifically as Hedera helix, contains compounds that can cause a toxic reaction if your pet chews on or eats it. It is also known by several other names, including Branching Ivy, Glacier Ivy, Needlepoint Ivy, Sweetheart Ivy, and California Ivy.
The plant’s toxicity is due to triterpenoid saponins, with a higher concentration in the foliage than in the berries. A pet that ingests any part of the plant may show signs of gastrointestinal distress. Because it is a common plant in homes and gardens, pet owners should understand the risks it poses.
English Ivy: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | English Ivy |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Branching Ivy, Glacier Ivy, Needlepoint Ivy, Sweetheart Ivy, California Ivy |
| Scientific name | Hedera helix |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin) |
| Clinical signs listed | Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries |
What the ASPCA lists for English Ivy
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists English Ivy as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principles identified in the plant are triterpenoid saponins, specifically hederagenin. These substances are naturally occurring chemical compounds that can irritate a pet’s system upon ingestion.
According to the ASPCA, the clinical signs of English Ivy poisoning in pets are primarily related to the digestive system. These symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Hypersalivation (drooling)
- Diarrhea
The ASPCA database also specifies that the leaves of the English Ivy plant are considered more toxic than its berries. This is an important detail for pet owners, as the leaves are often the most accessible part of the plant, especially for indoor cats and curious puppies.
What this means for a home with pets
Having English Ivy in your home or yard means you must take precautions to protect your pets. A cat or dog does not need to eat a large amount of the plant to experience adverse effects. Even chewing on the leaves can be enough to cause a reaction. Puppies and kittens are often more likely to explore new things with their mouths, which could put them at a higher risk if the plant is within their reach.
The signs of poisoning, such as vomiting and abdominal pain, indicate significant discomfort for an animal. Any ingestion of a known toxic plant warrants careful monitoring and a conversation with a veterinarian. It is not possible to predict how an individual pet will react, so prevention is the most effective strategy for safety.
Keeping pets and this plant apart
To prevent a pet from ingesting English Ivy, physical separation is key. If you have the plant indoors, place it on a very high shelf or in a hanging basket that a cat cannot possibly reach. Be mindful of fallen leaves, as these remain toxic and can be easily found by a pet on the floor. Regularly check the area around the plant for any dropped foliage.
For outdoor English Ivy, which is often used as a ground cover, supervision is essential. Keep your dog on a leash when walking in areas where the plant grows. In your own yard, consider creating a barrier or fence around ivy patches or choosing pet-safe alternatives for landscaping. Always supervise your pet when it is outdoors to prevent it from chewing on plants. Introducing new foods or plants to your pet’s environment should always be done with caution and after confirming they are safe.
When to call your vet
If your pet chewed or ate part of this plant, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line. Note which plant and which part, how much may be gone and when, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
If you suspect your cat or dog has chewed on or eaten any part of an English Ivy plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Take note of what part of the plant and how much your pet consumed, as well as the time of ingestion. Do not attempt to treat your pet at home without professional veterinary guidance.
Emergency signs: go now
- Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
- Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
- Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
- Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
- Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear
Book an appointment soon
- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
- Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
- Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.
Sources
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.