Is English Ivy Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
English ivy is moderately toxic to cats and dogs — its leaves contain saponins that cause drooling, vomiting, and in larger amounts breathing trouble. Call a vet if a lot is eaten.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is English Ivy?
English ivy is moderately toxic to cats and dogs — its leaves contain saponins that cause drooling, vomiting, and in larger amounts breathing trouble. Call a vet if a lot is eaten.
Also known as: hedera helix, common ivy, branching ivy, glacier ivy, needlepoint ivy.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea from the saponins
- Abdominal pain and reduced appetite
- In larger amounts: breathing difficulty, muscle weakness, or tremors
- The leaves are the most toxic part
🐈 In Cats
- Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Mouth irritation and reduced appetite
- In larger amounts: breathing difficulty or weakness
What to Do If Ingested
- Remove any remaining plant material from the mouth.
- Rinse the mouth with water to reduce irritation.
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline for guidance.
- Watch for vomiting or breathing changes.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- A large amount was eaten
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Breathing difficulty or muscle weakness
- Tremors
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes English ivy toxic to pets?
English ivy contains saponins, which irritate the mouth and digestive tract and cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. The leaves are the most toxic part. In larger amounts, the saponins can cause breathing difficulty, muscle weakness, and tremors.
How serious is English ivy ingestion?
Most cases cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea that resolve with supportive care. With larger ingestions, watch for breathing difficulty, muscle weakness, and tremors. Call a vet if a large amount was eaten or if breathing changes appear.
Is English ivy growing outdoors a risk?
Yes. Ivy growing on fences or walls is the same plant and is toxic if chewed. Outdoor cats and dogs that nibble ivy can develop drooling and vomiting. The berries are also toxic. Monitor pets around ivy and call a vet if it is eaten.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11