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Rhubarb Poisoning in Cats: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention

PawAI Lab
5 min read

Understand how rhubarb poisoning affects cats, what signs to watch for, and what steps to take if you suspect your cat has been exposed.

Quick Answer

Rhubarb poisoning in cats may cause gastrointestinal and other effects that warrant veterinary evaluation. Rhubarb leaves are the most toxic part. Cats with garden access may encounter rhubarb plants. If you suspect poisoning, contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service for guidance.

Before using any tool, contact a veterinary professional if your cat may have been exposed.

  • US: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661)
  • UK: Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) or your nearest veterinary emergency clinic
  • Canada: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661)
  • AU: Animal Emergency Centre or your regular vet
  • EU: Contact your nearest veterinary emergency service

TOXICITY CHECKER

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Safety Verdict

Toxic. Rhubarb leaves contain soluble oxalates that bind calcium, potentially causing kidney damage and electrolyte imbalances. The leaves are toxic; the stalks are less dangerous but still not recommended.

Rhubarb leaves are the most toxic part. Cats with garden access may encounter rhubarb plants.

What Is Rhubarb?

Rhubarb leaves contain soluble oxalates that bind calcium and can cause kidney damage. The stalks contain much less but are still not recommended for cats.

How Rhubarb Poisoning Affects Cats

The toxic principle in rhubarb is soluble oxalates (potassium oxalate). Rhubarb leaves contain soluble oxalates that bind calcium, potentially causing kidney damage and electrolyte imbalances. The leaves are toxic; the stalks are less dangerous but still not recommended.

The severity of rhubarb poisoning in cats depends on several factors:

  • The amount consumed or the extent of exposure
  • The route of exposure (ingestion, skin contact, inhalation)
  • The cat's body weight, age, and overall health
  • Whether the substance was in concentrated or diluted form
  • How quickly veterinary treatment is initiated

Can be moderate to severe with large amounts of leaves.

Signs of Rhubarb Poisoning in Cats

Common signs include:

  • Drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Tremors
  • Weakness
  • Kidney issues in severe cases
  • Loss of appetite

Timeline: Signs typically develop within a few hours.

Emergency signs requiring immediate veterinary attention:

  • Persistent vomiting
  • Tremors
  • Weakness or collapse
  • Signs of kidney issues

The absence of signs does not necessarily rule out risk, particularly with substances that have delayed effects. Veterinary evaluation is recommended even if your cat appears normal after known exposure.

What to Do If You Suspect Poisoning

  1. Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service for guidance.
  2. Remove any remaining substance from your cat's reach.
  3. Offer fresh water if your cat is willing to drink.
  4. Monitor for signs and contact a veterinarian if they develop or worsen.

Have this information ready:

  • Your cat's age, weight, breed, and any medical conditions
  • The specific product or plant name and its ingredients if known
  • Estimated amount consumed and time of exposure
  • Current symptoms and when they started
  • Product packaging, plant photos, or remaining material

If only a small amount of stalk was consumed, monitoring may be appropriate after consulting a veterinarian.

When to Contact a Veterinarian

Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service immediately if you suspect rhubarb poisoning. Rhubarb leaves are the most toxic part. Cats with garden access may encounter rhubarb plants.

Emergency signs that require urgent veterinary attention:

  • Persistent vomiting
  • Tremors
  • Weakness or collapse
  • Signs of kidney issues

Non-urgent follow-up: If only a small amount of stalk was consumed, monitoring may be appropriate after consulting a veterinarian.

FAQ

Which part of rhubarb is toxic?

The leaves contain high levels of soluble oxalates and are toxic. The stalks contain much less but are still not recommended for cats.

Can rhubarb cause kidney damage?

In significant amounts, soluble oxalates can bind calcium and potentially damage the kidneys. Large ingestions of leaves are most concerning.

How is rhubarb poisoning treated?

Treatment is supportive including IV fluids, monitoring of kidney values, and correction of electrolyte imbalances.

TOXICITY CHECKER

Concerned about another plant, food, medication, or household item around your cat? Get general, species-aware safety information to help you decide your next step.

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This tool provides general safety information and does not replace veterinary advice.

Sources

Disclaimer

This article and the PawAI Toxicity Checker tool provide general safety information and do not replace examination, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed veterinarian. If your cat may have ingested a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian, emergency clinic, or animal poison control immediately.