Is Gold Dust Plant Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Japanese Aucuba, Spotted Laurel, Variegated Japanese Aucuba · Aucuba japonica
What makes it toxic
Aucubin and related glycosides plus saponins, concentrated in the berries and foliage. They irritate the gut and in larger doses affect coordination and body temperature.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, loss of appetite and sometimes a wobbly gait or elevated temperature after eating berries.
What to do if your cat eats it
Remove berries or leaves from reach and call your vet for guidance. If the cat staggers or seems disoriented, get it seen promptly.
Common questions
Are the red berries the dangerous part?
They are the most concentrated and the most attractive — a cat may bat and chew them. Berries are the top concern with aucuba.
Is the gold dust plant related to laurel danger?
It is called spotted laurel but is an Aucuba, not a true laurel. It is mildly toxic, far less dangerous than cherry laurel.
More plants checked for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.