Is Ornamental Pepper toxic to cats?
Ornamental pepper (Solanum pseudocapsicum) is toxic to cats (S3 Toxic): the ASPCA lists solanine, with gastrointestinal disturbances, possible ulceration of the gastrointestinal system, seizures, depression, respiratory depression, and shock. Pet Poison Helpline says all parts contain solanine, and ingestion can cause gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration, depression, and in some cases seizures.
- TOXINSolanine
- WHAT TO EXPECTGastrointestinal disturbances; Possible ulceration of the gastrointestinal system; Seizures
- CALL THE VETContact your vet promptly after ingestion. The ASPCA lists seizures, respiratory depression, and shock. Pet Poison Helpline says seizures can occur in some cases.
Symptoms
| SIGN |
|---|
| Gastrointestinal disturbances |
| Possible ulceration of the gastrointestinal system |
| Seizures |
| Depression |
| Respiratory depression |
| Shock |
| Gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration |
If your cat just ate it
Same tabletop look, minus the risk
3 tabletop plants graded S0 — non-toxic on record.
Care at a glance
FAQ
Is ornamental pepper toxic to cats?
Yes, for Solanum pseudocapsicum: S3 Toxic. The ASPCA lists "Solanine" and gastrointestinal disturbances, possible ulceration of the gastrointestinal system, seizures, depression, respiratory depression, and shock. Pet Poison Helpline says all parts contain solanine. Contact your vet promptly after ingestion.
Is this the same as a kitchen pepper plant?
No. This verdict is Solanum pseudocapsicum. The ASPCA Ornamental Pepper, Jerusalem Cherry, and Winter Cherry entries all use that scientific name. ASPCA pages for pepper and capsicum were not found, and this page does not grade bell pepper, chili pepper, or other Capsicum plants. Check the scientific name on the tag.
Which parts of ornamental pepper do the sources name?
Pet Poison Helpline says all parts of Solanum pseudocapsicum contain solanine. It also says ingestion can cause gastrointestinal irritation and ulceration, depression, and in some cases seizures. The ASPCA adds possible ulceration of the gastrointestinal system, respiratory depression, and shock. Contact your vet promptly after ingestion.
Is ornamental pepper toxic to dogs?
Yes, for Solanum pseudocapsicum: S3 Toxic. The ASPCA lists "Solanine" and gastrointestinal disturbances, possible ulceration of the gastrointestinal system, seizures, depression, respiratory depression, and shock. Pet Poison Helpline says all parts contain solanine. Contact your vet promptly after ingestion.