Is Rhubarb Toxic to Pets?
Yes — rhubarb is toxic to cats. Yes — rhubarb is toxic to dogs. Yes — rhubarb is 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
- Rheum rhabarbarum
- Toxic compound
- Soluble calcium oxalates
- Toxic parts
- Leaves (most toxic)
- Also known as
- rhubarb leaves
Symptoms
Cats (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Dogs (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Horses (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
What to do
If your cat ate rhubarb
- 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 rhubarb
- 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.
If your horse ate rhubarb
- 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 horse ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
Rhubarb leaves contain soluble oxalates that can drop blood calcium and damage the kidneys.
Is your pet covered for emergency vet bills?
Compare pet insurance quotes →
Pet-safe alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Is rhubarb toxic to cats?
Yes — rhubarb is toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is rhubarb toxic to dogs?
Yes — rhubarb is toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is rhubarb toxic to horses?
Yes — rhubarb is toxic to horses. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Which parts of rhubarb are toxic?
Leaves (most toxic).
What makes rhubarb toxic?
Soluble calcium oxalates.