Can cats eat rhubarb?
No. The ASPCA lists rhubarb as toxic to cats because it contains soluble calcium oxalates. The leaves and roots are the most toxic parts. Don't share rhubarb with your cat, and call your vet if your cat chews any.
Updated:
Why
Rhubarb contains soluble calcium oxalates, and the ASPCA lists it as toxic to cats, with the leaves and roots as the most toxic parts. ASPCA's two rhubarb entries differ: one lists kidney failure, tremors and salivation, the other lists vomiting and salivation in dogs and cats and kidney failure in grazing animals. We follow the stricter entry and list kidney failure too.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Tremors
- Kidney problems (kidney failure)
What to do
If your cat chewed any part of a rhubarb plant, especially the leaves or roots, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline right away. Note what was eaten and when. Don't try to make your cat sick at home.
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Which part of rhubarb is the problem?
The ASPCA lists the rhubarb plant as toxic to cats and says the leaves and roots are the most toxic parts.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Rhubarb — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (no date shown)
- Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Pie Plant — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (no date shown)
- Cats and poisons — International Cat Care
- Common cat poisons and toxins — Blue Cross
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic cat: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.