Is Morning Glory Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Common Morning Glory, Ipomoea tricolor · Ipomoea tricolor
What makes it toxic
Lysergic acid amides (ergoline alkaloids) concentrated in the seeds, with milder irritants in leaves and stems. The seed alkaloids affect serotonin receptors in the brain.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, disorientation, wobbliness, tremors and either agitation or deep lethargy after seed ingestion; leaf chewing usually causes milder GI upset.
What to do if your cat eats it
Collect any seed pods and call your vet promptly, especially if seeds were eaten. Disorientation, tremors or collapse means an emergency clinic visit right away.
Common questions
Are the seeds really more dangerous than the flowers?
Yes — dramatically. The hallucinogenic alkaloids sit in the seeds; the pretty trumpet flowers are only mildly irritant.
Can a cat get sick from morning glory seeds and recover alone?
The altered mental state is poisoning, and it can progress to tremors and seizures. Do not wait it out — get veterinary help.
Do all morning glory varieties carry the alkaloids?
Levels vary by species, with Ipomoea tricolor and violacea among the strongest. Treat every morning glory vine as a seed-hazard plant.
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.