Is croton toxic to cats and dogs?
Quick answer
Toxic to cats and dogs. Croton contains diterpene esters.
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Croton Codiaeum variegatum
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of a croton, act quickly. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
- Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
- Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
- When you call, have the plant’s name or a photo ready. Tell the vet roughly how much your pet ate and when.
Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.
Symptoms
In cats and dogs, chewing it or contact with the sap can cause:
- Mild mouth and stomach irritation
- Drooling
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Minor skin irritation (from the sap)
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The ASPCA has no record for this species. Pet Poison Helpline lists Codiaeum variegatum as toxic to pets, and NC State Extension names diterpene esters as its toxic substance. Pet Poison Helpline
All croton guides
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