Is Rosary Pea Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)
Abrus precatorius
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Quick facts
| Toxic to dogs | Yes |
|---|---|
| Toxic to cats | Yes |
| Toxic to horses | Yes |
| Toxic component | Abrin (one of the most lethal plant toxins known, more potent than ricin) |
| Onset of symptoms | A few hours, though a single chewed/cracked seed can be fatal |
| Indoor / outdoor | outdoor |
If your pet ate this plant
Both lines are staffed 24/7. A consultation fee applies to each. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
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Symptoms in dogs
- Severe vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Seizures
- Organ failure
Symptoms in cats
- Severe vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Organ failure
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What to do
This is one of the most dangerous plants on this entire site — a single properly chewed seed can be lethal. Whole, unchewed seeds pass through with much lower risk since the seed coat is very hard, but any sign of chewing or seed damage warrants immediate emergency care.
Toxic component and mechanism
The toxic component in Rosary Pea is abrin (one of the most lethal plant toxins known, more potent than ricin).
What makes this plant different
Rosary Pea's bright red-and-black seeds are popular in jewelry and crafts specifically because of their striking color — a single seed, if actually chewed rather than swallowed whole, contains enough abrin to be lethal, making this one of the most dangerous plants on this entire site despite its innocuous, decorative reputation.
Plant identification
- Scientific name
- Abrus precatorius
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Also known as
- Rosary Pea
- Typically found
- outdoor
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Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control