Grape Ivy Toxic?

Updated 2026-03-06| 2 min read| 1,274 found this helpful
Cissus alata Jacq., Cissus rhombifolia Vahl, Vitis rhombifolia (Vahl) Baker
1

All parts of grape ivy are toxic, with higher concentrations of harmful compounds in unripe fruits

2

The plant has low toxicity for most mammals but causes severe, potentially fatal reactions in birds

3

Exposure leads to mucosal irritation, respiratory distress, and gastrointestinal symptoms in affected species

FAQ

Is Grape Ivy toxic to Humans?

Salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, throat swelling, shortness of breath (Low)

Is Grape Ivy toxic to Cats?

Limited confirmed toxicity data available; expected symptoms if ingested include salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, throat irritation, and difficulty swallowing (Low)

Is Grape Ivy toxic to Dogs?

Limited confirmed toxicity data available; expected symptoms if ingested include salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, throat irritation, and difficulty swallowing (Low)

Is Grape Ivy toxic to Horses?

Limited confirmed toxicity data available; expected symptoms if ingested include salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, throat irritation, and difficulty swallowing (Low)

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Toxicity Details

Humans
Low

Salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, throat swelling, shortness of breath

Cats
Low

Limited confirmed toxicity data available; expected symptoms if ingested include salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, throat irritation, and difficulty swallowing

Dogs
Low

Limited confirmed toxicity data available; expected symptoms if ingested include salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, throat irritation, and difficulty swallowing

Horses
Low

Limited confirmed toxicity data available; expected symptoms if ingested include salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, throat irritation, and difficulty swallowing

Toxicity Snapshot

Toxic PartsAll plant parts
Exposure RouteIngestion, direct contact with mucous membranes (mouth, eyes, nose)
Toxic CompoundsCalcium oxalate; Oxalic acid

First Aid & Prevention

First 30 Minutes

  • • If ingested, rinse mouth thoroughly with clean cool water to remove residual plant material
  • • If skin or eye contact occurs, flush affected area with running water for 10-15 minutes
  • • Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly instructed by a medical or veterinary professional

Contact Vet Immediately

  • • Severe swelling of the throat or mouth, difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • • Persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of abdominal pain after ingestion
  • • Exposure in birds, as they face severe toxicity risk even from small amounts

Prevention

  • • Keep grape ivy plants out of reach of pets, especially pet birds, and young children
  • • Wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid potential skin irritation from sap
  • • Clearly label the plant if kept in households with pets or children to prevent accidental ingestion

Treatment & Prognosis

  • • Perform decontamination to remove remaining plant material from the digestive tract as indicated
  • • Administer mucosal protectants to reduce irritation of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts
  • • Provide symptomatic care including analgesics for pain and antihistamines to reduce swelling as needed
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Professional Toxicology

Scientific NameCissus alata Jacq., Cissus rhombifolia Vahl, Vitis rhombifolia (Vahl) Baker
AliasesOak Leaf Ivy、Russian Vine、Königswein、Vigne-lierre、Cisso、Zimmerrebe、Rautenblättrige Klimme
Toxicity Grade
HumansLow
CatsLow
DogsLow
HorsesLow
Target Organs
Mouth, pharynx, larynx, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract
Mechanism of Action

• Calcium oxalate crystals and oxalic acid irritate mucosal membranes of the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract on contact, leading to swelling, pain, and impaired function

Other Species Risk (CliniTox)

Information from CliniTox veterinary text.

Birds: Severe, potentially fatal toxicity even from ingestion of small amounts of plant material
Confusion Risk

The following plants look similar and may be confused:

Other Cissus species Cissus spp.
Other Cissus species are visually similar to grape ivy, and most also have low toxicity levels for mammals
Other Vitaceae (grape family) species Vitaceae spp.
Many members of the grape family have similar leaf morphology, and most carry low to moderate toxicity risks
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Data Sources

This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.

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