Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) is a plant from the Apocynaceae family. It is used as a medicinal plant throughout the world. The toxin in Madagascar periwinkle is called vincristine, which is used to treat certain types of blood cancer. Animals become very toxic if they eat the plant’s leaves or stems. If your pet comes in contact with the plant, they need to be seen by a veterinarian right away.
What is Madagascar periwinkle?
Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) looks like an ordinary houseplant until it blooms. It has long, slender stalks, with small bright orange-red to pink flowers, which are typically arranged in clusters. The plant is poisonous to dogs and cats, and should not be given to them. The toxin in Madagascar periwinkle is periwinkle acid, which causes severe vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea and may cause a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction in some cats and dogs if sufficient quantities of the plant are ingested.