Is Bittersweet Toxic to Pets?
Yes — bittersweet is toxic to cats. Yes — bittersweet is toxic to dogs.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Scientific name
- Celastrus scandens
- Toxic compound
- Euonymin, sesquiterpene alkaloids
- Toxic parts
- Berries, leaves, bark
Symptoms
Cats (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
- Seizures
Dogs (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
- Seizures
What to do
If your cat ate bittersweet
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
If your dog ate bittersweet
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your dog ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
American and climbing bittersweet are used in fall wreaths. They can cause stomach upset and, in larger amounts, weakness and seizures.
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Frequently asked questions
Is bittersweet toxic to cats?
Yes — bittersweet is toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness.
Is bittersweet toxic to dogs?
Yes — bittersweet is toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness.
Which parts of bittersweet are toxic?
Berries, leaves, bark.
What makes bittersweet toxic?
Euonymin, sesquiterpene alkaloids.
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