PlantLegitIs English ivy toxic to dogs, cats or kids?
- DogsToxic (ASPCA)
- CatsToxic (ASPCA)
- People & kidsMedium poison severity (NC State Extension)
Sources (6)
- ASPCA plant entry: Branching Ivy (Hedera helix) – 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
- Hedera helix 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
- 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 Branching Ivy (Hedera helix) as toxic to dogs and toxic to cats.
NC State Extension also flags it as a problem for: Cats, Dogs, Horses.
Reported symptoms in people (NC State Extension): Contact with plant cell sap causes severe skin irritation with redness, itching, and blisters. Ingestion of berries causes burning sensation in the throat. Ingestion of leaves can result in delirium, stupor, convulsions, hallucinations, fever and rash, vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, and diarrhea. Foliage is more toxic than berries. English ivy contains allergens that may affect humans.
Poisonous parts: Bark Flowers Fruits Leaves Roots Sap/Juice Seeds Stems.
Toxic compound: Triterpenoid saponins and polyacetylene compounds.
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.