Calibrachoa, often referred to as "Million Bells" due to its prolific, petunia-like blooms, is a genus of plants in the Solanaceae family. This places it in the same botanical family as well-known plants like tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and tobacco, but also alongside the highly toxic nightshade (Atropa belladonna) and angel's trumpet (Brugmansia). Its classification is key to understanding its potential toxicity, as many plants within the Solanaceae family produce alkaloids as natural defense mechanisms against herbivores.
The primary compounds of concern in Calibrachoa are a group of naturally occurring chemicals called alkaloids, specifically solanine and other similar glycoalkaloids. Solanine is a toxin that affects the nervous system and digestive tract. The entire plant, including the leaves, stems, and flowers, contains these compounds. However, it is crucial to note that the concentration of these alkaloids in Calibrachoa is considered to be significantly lower than in its more notorious relatives, such as deadly nightshade. The plant's biochemistry is geared towards deterring pests like insects and grazing animals, but its potency is relatively mild compared to other common garden plants.
Based on its chemical profile, Calibrachoa is generally classified as a plant with low toxicity potential for pets. It is not listed by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) as a plant that is toxic to dogs, cats, or horses. This classification indicates that while the plant contains known irritants, it is not expected to cause severe or life-threatening illness if a small amount is ingested by a pet. The plant's low alkaloid concentration means a pet would need to consume a very large quantity to experience any significant toxic effect, which is an unlikely scenario given the plant's small foliage and bitter taste, which is naturally off-putting to most animals.
Despite its low toxicity rating, ingestion of any non-food plant material can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets due to the irritation from the plant's fibrous matter and its inherent chemical defenses. If a dog or cat were to nibble on a significant amount of Calibrachoa, the most likely symptoms would be related to digestive irritation. These may include vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. These effects are typically self-limiting and resolve without the need for major veterinary intervention. It is always important to monitor the pet and ensure they have access to fresh water to prevent dehydration from any vomiting or diarrhea.
