Inch plant Tradescantia zebrina
Calcium oxalate (mild irritant) · ASPCA
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of Inch plant, 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:
Boston fernNephrolepis exaltataMedium / indirect lightPet-safe
Kentia palmHowea forsterianaMedium / indirect lightPet-safe
Money treePachira aquaticaMedium / indirect lightPet-safe
Rattlesnake plantCalathea lancifoliaMedium / indirect lightPet-safePet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
All Inch plant guides
Related plants
Same genus or the same care pattern.
Frequently asked questions
Is Inch plant toxic to cats?
Yes, Inch plant, 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 Inch plant toxic to dogs?
Yes, Inch plant 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 Inch plant?
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 Inch plant with pets?
Inch plant 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