Is Horse Nettle Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Carolina Horsenettle, Apple of Sodom, Bull Nettle, Solanum carolinense · Solanum carolinense
What makes it toxic
Solanine and related glycoalkaloids concentrated in the yellow tomato-like berries, also in leaves and rhizomes. They irritate the digestive tract and, in larger doses, affect the nervous system.
Warning signs to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain within a few hours. Larger doses may add lethargy, weakness, trembling and slowed breathing.
What to do if your cat eats it
Remove berries and plant material, rinse the mouth and call your vet the same day. Trembling, profound weakness or breathing changes mean an immediate clinic visit.
Common questions
Are horse nettle berries tempting to cats?
The yellow berries look like tiny tomatoes, which is exactly the risk. Livestock deaths are documented from them, so pull the weed from pet-accessible ground.
Is horse nettle the same plant as stinging nettle?
No — stinging nettle is a different family and mostly a contact irritant. Horse nettle (Solanum carolinense) is a nightshade with genuinely poisonous berries.
More plants checked for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.