Privet
Ligustrum japonicum · Oleaceae
How it looks
Japanese Privet is an evergreen to semi-evergreen shrub with small, glossy oval leaves arranged in opposite pairs. In early summer small white flowers bloom in clusters at the branch tips and are strongly fragrant. In autumn and winter round black fruits appear in clusters. It stands 7–13 ft (2–4 m) tall and is common in hedges.
Caution — monitor for GI symptoms
All parts of Privet, especially the fruit, contain irritating compounds; gastrointestinal upset is the most common sign, and incoordination or a faster heart rate can follow. Death is rare but has been reported.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Symptoms
- Gastrointestinal upset, Incoordination, Increased heart rate, Death (rare)
- Onset (typical course)
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
Guide for parents
The ligustrin in privet irritates the gut, so gastrointestinal upset is the most common sign after chewing. Incoordination or a faster heart rate can follow, and death has rarely been reported.
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.
Details
- Scientific name
- Ligustrum japonicum
- Common name
- Privet
- Family
- Oleaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the fruit)
- Compounds
- Ligustrin
- Source
- ASPCA cats plant list
Related plants
Same plant family· Oleaceae
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