Sorrel
Rumex scutatus · Polygonaceae
How it looks
Sorrel is a plant whose arrowhead-shaped leaves grow in clumps from the root. Cutting a leaf yields a strongly sour juice. The flower stalk rises upright 12–31 in (30–80 cm), bearing small green to reddish flowers gathered in spikes. It is common in the wild and in gardens.
Caution — monitor for GI symptoms
The leaves and roots of Sorrel contain irritating compounds that can cause drooling and tremors 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 on Sorrel rarely leads to serious trouble, but the oxalates it contains irritate the stomach and mucous membranes, causing mild digestive upset. Make a habit of picking up fallen leaves and broken stems the same day, and keep the pot out of your cat's reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite drops noticeably, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Salivation, tremors, kidney damage
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
Details
- Scientific name
- Rumex scutatus
- Common name
- Sorrel
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Toxic parts
- Leaves, Roots
- Compounds
- Oxalic acid
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Salivation, tremors, kidney damage
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Polygonaceae
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