Is Prickly Poppy Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Mexican Poppy, Devil’s Fig, Argemone mexicana · Argemone mexicana
What makes it toxic
Isoquinoline alkaloids — sanguinarine, berberine, protopine — in the golden sap, seeds and foliage. They irritate the digestive tract and, at high doses, cause circulatory and ocular effects.
Warning signs to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain within hours. Large ingestions may add lethargy, trembling and, uncommonly, eye irritation or breathing difficulty.
What to do if your cat eats it
Remove plant material, rinse the mouth and call your vet the same day. Persistent vomiting, tremors or any eye exposure warrants an exam.
Common questions
Is prickly poppy related to opium poppy?
No — Argemone is a different genus with no morphine, but its own alkaloids are genuinely harmful. The spiny leaves and yellow sap are its signature.
Why is the seed oil a known poison?
Argemone oil adulterating mustard oil has caused epidemic dropsy in humans, proof of the seeds’ potency. Keep all plant parts away from pets.
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.