Is Oxalis Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Purple Shamrock, False Shamrock, Wood Sorrel, Oxalis triangularis · Oxalis triangularis
What makes it toxic
Soluble calcium oxalates, which dissolve into the bloodstream rather than staying as harmless crystals. Small doses inflame the stomach; large doses bind blood calcium and form kidney stones.
Warning signs to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite within hours. Heavy ingestion can cause weakness, tremors, increased thirst and reduced or dark urine as kidney effects appear.
What to do if your cat eats it
Remove plant material and call your vet promptly. If the cat ate a lot or shows tremors, unusual thirst or changes in urination, go to an emergency clinic.
Common questions
Is oxalis different from pothos or monstera?
Yes, importantly. Those plants hold insoluble crystals that only injure the mouth; oxalis has soluble oxalates that the body absorbs, adding kidney risk.
Is the purple shamrock sold in spring dangerous like clover lookalikes?
Oxalis triangularis is the houseplant version and carries the oxalates. Wood sorrel in the lawn is the same genus, so both count as toxic.
How much oxalis is a real problem for a cat?
A nibble usually means mild GI irritation only. A sustained chewing habit or a meal of foliage is when kidney risk enters the picture — call the vet for anything more than a bite.
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.