Is Morning Glory Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Morning glory (Ipomoea spp) is toxic to cats and dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals includes this popular climbing plant in its database of plants that are toxic to pets. While the entire plant is a concern, the toxicity is primarily associated with its seeds.
These plants belong to the Convolvulaceae family. The risk to pets comes from the compounds found within them, which can cause adverse reactions if ingested. Pet owners should be cautious about having these plants in areas accessible to their animals.
Morning Glory: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Morning Glory |
|---|---|
| Other common names | None listed |
| Scientific name | Ipomoea spp |
| Family | Convolvulaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Indole alkaloids (Lysergic acid, lysergamide, elymoclavine and chanoclavine) |
| Clinical signs listed | Vomiting, large amounts of seeds may cause hallucinations |
What the ASPCA lists for morning glory
The ASPCA identifies morning glory as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principles are a group of compounds called indole alkaloids. These include lysergic acid, lysergamide, elymoclavine, and chanoclavine. These substances are concentrated in the seeds of the plant.
According to the ASPCA, the primary clinical sign of morning glory ingestion is vomiting. The database also specifies that if a pet consumes large amounts of the seeds, it may experience hallucinations. The effects are directly related to the part of the plant and the quantity eaten.
What this means in a home with pets
For a household with cats or dogs, the presence of morning glory plants requires careful management. The main danger is a pet eating the seeds, where the toxic compounds are most concentrated. A pet that ingests a significant quantity of seeds is at risk for more serious symptoms than one that only chews on a leaf.
Curious puppies and kittens are often more likely to chew on new things in their environment. Even adult pets may nibble on plants out of boredom or curiosity. Because any part of the plant can cause a reaction like vomiting, it is best to prevent access altogether. Always supervise pets in areas where potentially toxic plants are grown.
Keeping cats and dogs and this plant apart
The most effective way to prevent morning glory poisoning is to ensure pets cannot get to the plants. This is especially important for the seed pods that develop after the flowers fade.
- Indoors, keep any potted plants completely out of a pet’s reach, such as on a high shelf or in a room that pets cannot enter.
- Outdoors, consider fencing off garden areas where morning glories are planted. Check your yard for any volunteer plants that may have grown from dropped seeds.
- When walking your dog, be mindful of morning glories growing on fences or in neighbors’ yards. Keep your dog on a leash and steer it away from unknown vegetation.
- Provide safe toys and enrichment for your pets to reduce the chance they will chew on plants out of boredom.
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 pet has eaten any part of a morning glory plant, especially the seeds, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. Note when your pet ate the plant and try to estimate how much was consumed. Do not try to induce vomiting or give any home remedies unless specifically instructed by a veterinary professional.
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
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- 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.