Leek
Allium ampeloprasum · Amaryllidaceae
How it looks
Leek is an onion-family plant with a thick, white stalk and broad, flat dark green leaves that fan out in a V shape. It has a strong onion-family aroma and grows upright at 2–3 ft (60 cm–1 m). Its leaves are broader and flatter than those of green onions.
Caution — monitor for GI symptoms
All parts of Leek contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, 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 Leek usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but its unidentified compounds (presumed steroidal saponins) 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
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
Details
- Scientific name
- Allium ampeloprasum
- Common name
- Leek
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Unknown (presumed steroidal saponins)
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Amaryllidaceae
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