Is Night-Blooming Jasmine Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Night Jasmine, Lady of the Night, Night Jessamine, Cestrum nocturnum · Cestrum nocturnum
What makes it toxic
Toxic glycosides and alkaloids throughout the plant, concentrated in the berries. They irritate the gut and in sufficient amounts affect the nervous system.
Warning signs to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and increased thirst within hours. Larger ingestions can add incoordination, tremors, a rapid pulse and fever.
What to do if your cat eats it
Remove berries or leaves, note what was eaten and call your vet promptly. Wobbliness, tremors or collapse means go to an emergency clinic immediately.
Common questions
Is it a true jasmine?
No — Cestrum is in the nightshade family, unlike true jasmine (Jasminum). The common name hides a more toxic plant than many expect.
Is the strong evening scent dangerous to breathe?
The fragrance is not the hazard for cats; ingestion is. Keep the plant itself away from chewing cats, especially the berries.
How dangerous are the berries compared to the leaves?
Berries are the concentrated source. A cat knocking off and eating fallen berries is the classic poisoning scenario.
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.