Is Privet Toxic to Pets?
Yes — privet is mildly toxic to cats. Yes — privet is mildly toxic to dogs. Yes — privet is mildly toxic to horses.
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
- Ligustrum spp.
- Toxic compound
- Terpenoid glycosides
- Toxic parts
- Berries and leaves
- Also known as
- ligustrum
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Dogs (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Horses (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
What to do
If your cat ate privet
- Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.
If your dog ate privet
- Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.
If your horse ate privet
- Remove any plant material from your horse's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your horse is small, young or elderly.
Good to know
Privet berries can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Large amounts may cause wobbliness.
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Frequently asked questions
Is privet toxic to cats?
Yes — privet is mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is privet toxic to dogs?
Yes — privet is mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is privet toxic to horses?
Yes — privet is mildly toxic to horses. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Which parts of privet are toxic?
Berries and leaves.
What makes privet toxic?
Terpenoid glycosides.
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