Periwinkle

Periwinkle (also known as Vinca or Catharanthus) is a common bedding and container ornamental, but keep it out of a home with a cat. The whole plant contains vinca alkaloids, so even a small amount affects the digestive tract and nervous system.

How cats get exposed

The leaves, flowers, and stems are all toxic, and the compounds also leach into the water holding cut stems. It is often planted along bed edges or in hanging baskets, so cats get exposed by nibbling leaves in passing or chewing fallen flowers.

How symptoms progress

Signs usually begin within a few hours with vomiting and diarrhea. Because vinca alkaloids also act on the nervous system, larger amounts can progress to tremors, wobbliness, low blood pressure, and seizures. The more that is eaten, the more prominent the neurological signs.

What to do right now

If there is any chance your cat chewed or swallowed it, contact your vet without delay, even if the signs look mild. It helps to tell them roughly how much was eaten and when. Do not induce vomiting on your own at home.

Safer alternatives

If you want flowers in the beds or pots of a home with a cat, consider confirmed-safe options like roses or gerbera daisies.