What are the symptoms if a cat eats Balfour Aralia?

Mouth irritation and drooling, Vomiting and diarrhea, Loss of appetite and lethargy (depression), Contact dermatitis (skin redness or itching)

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⚠ Caution

Balfour Aralia

Q: Is Balfour Aralia toxic to cats?

Caution: potentially harmful. Balfour Aralia (Polyscias balfouriana) is a popular houseplant with round, glossy leaves. It belongs to the same family as Schefflera and English Ivy, and like its relatives it is not a plant cats should chew on. All parts contain saponins, soap-like compounds that irritate the mouth and digestive tract. The risk is low. A nibble or two usually causes nothing more than brief drooling or mild stomach upset. Problems arise only when a cat eats a large amount of leaves or stems, which can lead to repeated vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and lethargy. The ASPCA lists the closely related Polyscias guilfoylei (Geranium-Leaf Aralia) as toxic to cats for the same reason. Sap on the skin can also cause a localised rash. Most cases resolve on their own once the plant is removed. Keep the plant out of reach and offer fresh water if your cat has chewed it. Contact your veterinarian if vomiting or diarrhea continues for more than a day, if your cat stops eating, or if you see signs of dehydration or unusual weakness.

Polyscias balfouriana

Also known as: Dinner Plate Aralia, Plate Aralia, Balfour Polyscias, Polyscias scutellaria 'Balfourii'

Balfour Aralia (Polyscias balfouriana) is a popular houseplant with round, glossy leaves. It belongs to the same family as Schefflera and English Ivy, and like its relatives it is not a plant cats should chew on. All parts contain saponins, soap-like compounds that irritate the mouth and digestive tract. The risk is low. A nibble or two usually causes nothing more than brief drooling or mild stomach upset. Problems arise only when a cat eats a large amount of leaves or stems, which can lead to repeated vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and lethargy. The ASPCA lists the closely related Polyscias guilfoylei (Geranium-Leaf Aralia) as toxic to cats for the same reason. Sap on the skin can also cause a localised rash. Most cases resolve on their own once the plant is removed. Keep the plant out of reach and offer fresh water if your cat has chewed it. Contact your veterinarian if vomiting or diarrhea continues for more than a day, if your cat stops eating, or if you see signs of dehydration or unusual weakness.

Important Notes

Main hazard: Saponins in all parts of the plant irritate the mouth and digestive tract; a small nibble is rarely a problem, a large amount can cause stomach upset.

Symptoms: Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and lethargy; sap on the skin can cause local redness or itching.

Why cats get exposed: Its glossy, rounded leaves and low, bushy growth put it within easy reach of a curious cat.

Action: Move the plant out of reach and offer water; call a vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day or your cat stops eating.

Potentially Toxic Parts

Entire Plant

Leaf

Stem

Sap

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Mouth irritation and drooling

Gastrointestinal · Immediate to within an hour of chewing

Vomiting and diarrhea

Gastrointestinal · Within a few hours of ingestion

Loss of appetite and lethargy (depression)

Gastrointestinal · Within hours of ingestion

Contact dermatitis (skin redness or itching)

Dermal · Shortly after skin contact with sap

Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.