Locust
Robinia spp. · Fabaceae
How it looks
Locust is a legume-family tree with alternate, feather-like compound leaves (pinnate) of small leaflets. The branches bear large thorns, and in spring fragrant white-and-pink butterfly-shaped flowers hang in long clusters (4–8 in / 10–20 cm). It grows 33–82 ft (10–25 m) tall.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Locust contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting and lethargy if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble of Locust usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the unidentified compounds in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, lethargy
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Robinia spp.
- Common name
- Locust
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Unknown
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, lethargy
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
