Yes, tomato plants are toxic to cats.
Known as Solanum lycopersicum, the tomato plant bears the red, plump fruits that humans love to eat. However, they are actually unsafe for cats to eat. The fleshy fruits as well as the entire plant contains solanine, a glycoalkaloid poison found in species of the nightshade family. This poison is also found in uncooked potatoes.
Wag! reports that tomato plants contain alpha‐tomatine and alpha‐dehydrotomatine in its leaves, branches, roots, and fruits. These are harmful for cats, dogs, and other animals, especially when large amounts are consumed.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats tomato plants: If your cat eats the raw fruit or portions of the tomato plant, observe her for any unusual symptoms. She may display hypersalivation, lack of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, severe gastrointestinal upset, depression, weakness, dilated pupils, and slow heart rate. Share your observations with the veterinarian, and bring her to the vet clinic if needed.
Ripe tomato fruits are non-toxic for cats, so she shouldn’t show any signs after eating them. However, you should not feed her cooked tomatoes mixed with other potentially harmful ingredients. Common seasonings include salt, sugar, garlic, onions, and other herbs and spices.
In summary: Tomato plants can cause mild but uncomfortable symptoms in cats and even dogs. As such, it’s not safe to grow them at home if you own pets. In addition, always remember to store your unripe tomatoes properly to prevent your cat from accidentally playing or chewing on them.
Before you consider buying a new houseplant or bringing home a bouquet of flowers, check out the lists of ASPCA, PetMD, and Pet Poison Helpline. They’ll help you determine which plants are safe for cats.
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