Is Tomato Plant Toxic to Cats?

Yes — Tomato Plant is mildly toxic to cats

Ripe tomatoes are safe for pets — it's the green parts (leaves, stems, unripe fruit) that contain toxic glycoalkaloids. Most pets avoid the bitter-tasting foliage. The amount needed to cause serious illness is large.

Symptoms in Cats

If your cat eats Tomato Plant, watch for these symptoms (onset: 2-6 hours):

Drooling
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Confusion (large amounts)

What To Do

Monitor at home. Ripe red tomatoes are safe. Only leaves, stems, and green fruit are toxic. See vet if large quantity of foliage eaten.

Cat-Safe Alternatives to Tomato Plant

✓ Basil ✓ Rosemary ✓ Thyme

Quick Facts

Scientific Name

Solanum lycopersicum

Also Toxic to Dogs?

Yes (mild)

Toxic Compound

Solanine, tomatine (glycoalkaloids)

Toxic Parts

leaves, stems, unripe green fruit

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline. View full Tomato Plant toxicity profile.