PlantLegitIs Swamp milkweed toxic to dogs, cats or kids?
Yes, it can be toxic.
- DogsToxic (ASPCA)
- CatsToxic (ASPCA)
- People & kidsLow poison severity (NC State Extension)
Sources (6)
- ASPCA plant entry: Milkweed (Asclepias species) – American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
- Plants toxic and non-toxic to dogs – ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Plants toxic and non-toxic to cats – ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Asclepias incarnata plant profile, poison fields – NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Poison Help line 1-800-222-1222 – U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)
- Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 – ASPCA
Think someone ate part of a plant?
- Person or child: call Poison Help 1-800-222-1222 (free, confidential, 24/7; HRSA Poison Help).
- Dog, cat or other pet: call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 (24/7; a consultation fee may apply; ASPCA) or your veterinarian.
- Trouble breathing, seizures or collapse: call 911.
Details
ASPCA lists Milkweed (Asclepias species) as toxic to dogs and toxic to cats. ASPCA's entry covers the whole genus Asclepias species, not Asclepias incarnata by name.
Reported symptoms in people (NC State Extension): Can cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, weakness, lethargy, and confusion if eaten in quantity. Milky sap can cause contact dermatitis and eye irritation
Poisonous parts: Flowers Fruits Leaves Roots Seeds Stems.
Toxic compound: Cardiac glycosides and resinoids.
Can cause skin irritation (contact dermatitis) on touch.
This page summarizes published lists. It is not medical or veterinary advice. Keep plants away from young children and pets, and call the numbers above with any concern. Checked 2026-10-14.