Is Natal Plum Toxic to Cats?

✅ Non-Toxic

✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit

⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.

No, natal plum is non-toxic to cats. It appears on the ASPCA non-toxic list, and its red berry-like fruit is even eaten by people.

Also known as: Large Num-Num, Amatungulu, Carissa macrocarpa · Carissa macrocarpa

What to do if your cat eats it

No action needed beyond discouraging habitual plant chewing. If a cat tangles with the shrub’s spines, check for a scratch — a clean prick heals fine, but a swollen or oozing wound deserves a vet look.

Common questions

Is the fruit safe for cats to try?

A small taste of ripe natal plum fruit is not expected to cause harm, though sugary or prepared jams are unnecessary for cats and their spines make the shrub a poor chew toy anyway.

Are the spines a poisoning risk?

No — they are a physical hazard. A spine splinter in a paw can cause limping and minor infection, so inspect and clean any prick wound.

More plants checked for cats

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to cats. Chewing the leaves or vines releases sharp calcium oxalate crystal Aloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to cats. The gel is famously soothing for human skin, bu Spider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to cats. They are one of the best houseplants for homes with cur Easter Lily☠️ ToxicYes — and this is one of the most dangerous plants a cat can meet. Every part of an Easter lily,Sago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to cats and among the deadliest houseplants. Every part contai Boston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to cats — a classic choice for plant-loving cat households.

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.