Toxic to cats · Plants

Is Tobacco toxic to cats?

Extreme severity No safe amount — No amount is considered safe.

Yes. Even a small amount can be life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • low heart rate
  • low respiratory rate
  • overstimulation
  • uncontrolled urination
  • uncontrolled defecation
  • tremors
  • seizures
  • paralysis
  • death

How vets treat it

Immediate veterinary intervention is required to manage neurological and cardiovascular symptoms; decontamination and supportive care are essential.

Why it's dangerous

The pyridine and piperidine alkaloids initially cause low heart and respiratory rates, followed by severe overstimulation of the nervous system.

Toxic compound: Nicotine

Good to know

There are over 60 species of Nicotiana containing toxic alkaloids.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to cats

African Wonder Tree Extreme severity Andromeda Japonica Extreme severity Angel's Trumpet Extreme severity Autumn Crocus Extreme severity Everything toxic to cats →

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