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Is Golden Chain Tree Toxic to Cats?

☠️ ToxicSeverity: Severe
✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit
⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.
Yes, the golden chain tree is severely toxic to cats. Its seeds and every other part contain cytisine, which attacks the nervous system and can be fatal.

Also known as: Laburnum, Golden Rain Tree · Laburnum anagyroides

What makes it toxic

Cytisine, a nicotinic alkaloid concentrated in the pea-like seed pods. It overstimulates then paralyzes nerve signaling, affecting breathing and the heart.

Warning signs to watch for

Drooling, vomiting, lethargy and incoordination within an hour, followed by tremors, seizures, rapid then labored breathing and possible coma.

What to do if your cat eats it

This is an immediate emergency. Go to an emergency veterinary clinic now with a piece of the plant or pods, even if the cat seems normal.

Common questions

Are the seed pods the most dangerous part?

Yes, the seeds carry the highest cytisine concentration, but leaves, flowers and bark are all toxic. Pods dropping in late summer are the classic exposure.

Can a cat survive laburnum poisoning?

Survival depends on how quickly treatment starts. Fast emergency decontamination and supportive care can save a cat; delays are often fatal.

More plants checked for cats

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to cats. Chewing the leaves or vines releases sharp calcium oxalate crystalAloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to cats. The gel is famously soothing for human skin, buSpider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to cats. They are one of the best houseplants for homes with curEaster Lily☠️ ToxicYes — and this is one of the most dangerous plants a cat can meet. Every part of an Easter lily,Sago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to cats and among the deadliest houseplants. Every part contaiBoston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to cats — a classic choice for plant-loving cat households.

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.