Purple heart Tradescantia pallida
Calcium oxalate (mild irritant) · ASPCA
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of Purple heart, 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.
- Have the plant’s name or a photo, roughly how much, and when it happened ready when you call.
Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.
Symptoms
In cats and dogs, contact or ingestion can cause:
- Intense oral burning and irritation
- Drooling and pawing at the mouth
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat
- Vomiting
Non-toxic plants for the same spot and light
Non-toxic plants that suit the same spot:
RosemaryRosmarinus officinalisBright / direct lightPet-safe
Areca palmDypsis lutescensBright / direct lightPet-safe
Wax plantHoya carnosaBright / direct lightPet-safe
Sweetheart plantHoya kerriiBright / direct lightPet-safePet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
All Purple heart guides
Related plants
Same genus or the same care pattern.
Frequently asked questions
Is Purple heart toxic to cats?
Yes, Purple heart, which contains calcium oxalate (mild irritant), is toxic to cats. If your cat chews or ingests any part of the plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center right away. Symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, and oral irritation.
Is Purple heart toxic to dogs?
Yes, Purple heart is toxic to dogs. Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats any part of it. Do not wait for symptoms.
What should I do if my cat ate Purple heart?
Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (24/7). Try to bring a piece of the plant or a photo so the vet can identify the species. Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
Can I keep Purple heart with pets?
Purple heart is toxic to cats and dogs, so it is best kept out of reach: ideally in a room your pets cannot access, or replaced with a non-toxic alternative. See the pet-safe alternatives listed on this page.
ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: 2026-09-01