Wisteria sinensis / Wisteria floribunda
Why is it risky?
Wisteria contains wisterin (a resin glycoside) and lectins in its seeds and pods, causing GI toxicity. Ingestion causes vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain that can be severe enough to cause dehydration requiring IV fluids. Seeds and pods are the most toxic parts; leaves and flowers carry lower concentrations.
Affected Systems
Digestive
Symptoms
Vomiting (sometimes severe and repeated), diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, dehydration.
What To Do
Vet contact if seeds or pods were ingested. Monitor for dehydration from vomiting/diarrhea. IV fluids if symptoms are severe.
Notes
Wisteria is common as a climbing garden plant. The hanging seed pods are visually conspicuous and may attract cats as play items, remove fallen pods from areas cats access. Less acutely dangerous than Sago Palm, Azalea, or Foxglove, but GI effects can be severe enough to cause significant dehydration.
Sources
→ ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/wisteria
→ Pet Poison Helpline — petpoisonhelpline.com