Instead, these alstroemeria beauties are non-toxic to cats, relatively inexpensive and last for a really long time. Related Article: Best Cat Dewormer. Toxicity can range from mild gastrointestinal disturbances to life-threatening organ failure. What would happen to your cats if something happened to you. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your cats. Keep in mind that. “Any exposure is considered a severe emergency, and decontamination and detoxification with supportive care is key to long term survival and minimizing damage,” he says. When she's not working or caring for animals, she can be found enjoying the outdoors or reading a good book. It’s important to educate yourself on the harmful effects poisonous flowers can have. genus) is a perennial shrub that typically yields flowers in red, pink, and yellow. Veterinarians recommend preventing cats’ access to the following flowers. “Chewing on some plants is enough to cause toxicity, and ingestion is not always necessary to become poisoned,” says Kelley. If your kitty spends any time outdoors, keep him away from any flowers that are toxic to cats. When it comes to safety of your cat, 100% protection against all possible danger in this world is a must. These lists are not all-inclusive, so if you’re unsure about any plant, it’s safest to check with a professional. One of early spring’s typical flowers, tulips actually belong to the lily family (Liliaceae). Alstroemeria, also known as a Peruvian Lily, is one of my personal favorite flowers. Cats seem drawn to the smell, but like many hibiscus plants it is moderately toxic. © 2021 Great Pet Media. Each one is unique, delicate and vibrant. If you live with cats, you know how curious they can be, especially when they’re younger. Some of the compounds in hydrangeas can theoretically break down to cyanide gas in the stomach, “I would definitely advise against letting your cat eat these,” says Bischoff. “We see regular cases of exposure and intoxication with indoor and outdoor cats,” says Dr. Kevin Kelley, an emergency veterinarian at BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Hospital in Clearwater, Florida. “They are in highest concentration in the bulbs, but the plant if ingested, can cause vomiting, hyper-salivation, diarrhea, and depression,” he adds. Orchids last for years as long as you care for them and orchids are non-toxic to cats. but we don’t recommend eating them. Paula Fitzsimmons is a content marketing writer and journalist who writes about pets as they intersect with topics related to health, nutrition, technology, and lifestyle. “The worst I would expect would be some mild vomiting and diarrhea,” says Bischoff. The majority won’t cause much more than skin irritation or an upset stomach, and it’s very unlikely that cats will intentionally eat plants that are poisonous to them. Most orchids are considered safe for cats. For example, while the common lilac plant (Syringa vulgaris) is not considered poisonous to cats, the Persian lilac of the Melia genus is. All parts of the plant, including the pollen, should be avoided as they can cause kidney failure in cats. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/poisonous-dogs-cats.html https://www.thecatniptimes.com/learn/5-flowers-that-are-safe-for-cats There’s no denying the beauty of freshly-cut tulips or a garden bed of lilies, but flowers like these can make cats sick or even be fatal. You need to practice safety measure to encourage assurance and well-being. Monitor your cat closely and take it to the vet ASAP if you see any of the symptoms mentioned above. Just enjoy their beauty! petslady.com/articles/poisonous-plants-10-outdoor-plants-poisonous-cats Always research the flower you’re planning to purchase, whether it’s an indoor or outdoor plant, recommends Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director at, and a board-certified veterinary toxicologist. are so incredibly toxic to cats that they aren’t ever allowed in my house,” says Bischoff. It’s a truly invaluable resource. According to Dr. Spano, lilies and daylillies (which are actually two totally separate flowers) are some of the most poisonous flowers to cats, so make sure you steer clear of all of them. The common prickly-stemmed rose (of the Rosa genus) is a perennial shrub that typically yields flowers in red, pink, and yellow. But they also come in other colors, including yellow, red, and green. “It is best to familiarize yourself with the list of toxic plants and keep these types of plants out of your home or garden for the health and safety of your pet.”. Flowers That Are Poisonous to Cats By Carrie Epstein Cuteness may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. People who share their homes with cats must be aware that many flowers which are popular in floral arrangements or as potted plants are toxic to cats. If in doubt about any plant, it pays to run it past your veterinarian, a garden expert, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). You need to get attention from a vet immediately. They contain Tulipalin A and B, chemical compounds that Kelley says are poisonous to cats. Daffodils contain lycorine, an emetic (a substance that induces vomiting). Stick to traditional roses from the Rosacea family as other flowers with the word “rose” in them can actually be dangerous (think primrose). Even if cats do make contact with lilacs, they. Keep your home fragrant and your cat safe by picking bunches of flowers containing pet-friendly stems, and avoiding those that can be toxic to cats. “Cats might go for certain plants because they enjoy the mouth feel,” says Dr. Cathy Lund, a veterinarian with City Kitty Veterinary Care for Cats in Providence, Rhode Island. Jan 23, 2018 Getty Images. The Answer Is: Lilies Lilies are extremely toxic to cats. Baby Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii) The word we’d use to describe Soleirolia soleirolii is cute. The reason the alstroemeria lily can cause mild irritation to cats is because they contain ‘tulipalin A’, which is a toxin. Because cats don’t have hands that can manipulate objects like we do, “they default to using their mouths, which gives some toxins immediate access to their body,” adds Kelley. Find out what color your main squeeze likes and bring home a beautiful bouquet of roses that will make your Valentine – and your cats very happy. Knowing which flowers are poisonous to cats. But they also come in other colors, including yellow, red, and green. If none of the flower options appeal to you, definitely visit and bookmark the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants. It can cause more severe gastrointestinal distress, and also muscle weakness, tremors, and seizures if ingested,” says Bischoff. Plants produce toxins as a survival mechanism, says Dr. Karyn Bischoff, a board-certified veterinary toxicologist at the New York State Animal Health Diagnostic Center in Ithaca, New York. And some can present other challenges, like a rose with its prickly stem. Orchids are part of the highly-diverse Orchidaceae family, a group of fragrant, flowering plants that most often present in various shades of pink. “Other plants can damage the liver or kidneys, sometimes irreversibly, or cause cardiac arrhythmias or neurologic side effects, including seizures and even death,” adds Kelley. Cats also have an excellent sense of smell, with about 14 to 20 times the smell receptors that people do, says Kelley. “True lilies (Lilium) and daylilies (Hemerocalis) are so incredibly toxic to cats that they aren’t ever allowed in my house,” says Bischoff. “Their effects are seen with organ damage, manifesting days later, when treatment can be far less effective and damage is permanent.”. If you live with cats, you know how curious they can be, especially when they’re younger. Knowing which flowers are poisonous to cats and taking steps to prevent access to them can go a long way to keeping your cat safe. I frequently buy these at Trader Joe’s for $3.99 for a full bouquet that sometimes lasts up to 2 weeks! Great Pet Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. That being said, delicate flowers offer beauty that may look harmless, but appearances can be deceiving. It is native to southern Africa but is a wildly popular flower in the United States. This doesn’t mean you need to completely give up flowers. Adam-and-Eve (Arum, Lord-and-Ladies, Wake Robin, Starch Root, Bobbins, Cuckoo Plant) | Scientific Names: Arum maculatum | Family: Araceae. We’re going to go over the most common plants that are poisonous to cats. Flowers and Plants that … If you suspect your cat has been exposed to a toxic plant (or are in doubt), contact your veterinarian. © Copyright 2012 - 2020 | The Catnip Times, Inc | All Rights Reserved, are not traditional lilies which are extremely toxic to cats, Sign-up (your cat)! Protoanemonin is a bitter-tasting oil that irritates the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, and is poisonous to horses, cats, and dogs. “Plants can’t run away, so they have to come up with other ways to prevent getting eaten by insects and animals.”. family, a group of fragrant, flowering plants that most often present in various shades of pink. Early symptoms of lily poisoning include excessive salivation or drooling, vomiting, and lethargy, which can range from mild to noticeable, says Kelley. contact with these and other toxic flowers for cats can be dangerous. Common blooms including yarrow, foxgloves and some options on our site can have … Many common garden plants have some toxic elements that could prove dangerous to your cat. Lilies, tulips and azaleas may look pretty, but they can be deadly to cats and dogs if they ingest or come into contact with them. Like with tulips, symptoms for poisoning from daisies come up quite suddenly and are very noticeable. This plant is very toxic. Sometimes they are referred to as Gerber daisies. Plants Toxic to Cats. . All cat parents should know the most common plants that are poisonous to cats. As mentioned above, while the common lilac is not poisonous, the Persian lilac is, so pet owners should know the difference between the two varieties before planting or plucking. This website uses cookies and third party services. “Each [cat] is different and some aggressively seek out certain smells when available, while others seem not to care or respond.”. Image Credit: David De Lossy/Photodisc/Getty Images Plants are a visually appealing addition to any home, but cat owners need to pay careful attention before bringing home a plant. Unfortunately, your beloved cat will not like its effects. Alstroemeria are a little poisonous to cats. This article is split into 3 sections below: Flowers Toxic to cats that are commonly used in flower arrangements. https://www.vets-now.com/2017/03/spring-plants-warnings-cat-owners “Cats might go for certain plants because they enjoy the mouth feel,” says. Mums are some of autumn’s most widely-grown flowers, presenting in deep orange, burgundy, purple, and yellow. Access our library of professional veterinarian resources. Which flowers are toxic to cats? I think in a worst-case scenario, a cat might get an upset stomach and maybe vomit or have some diarrhea,” she says. “Plants can’t run away, so they have to come up with other ways to prevent getting eaten by insects and animals.”. We see regular cases of exposure and intoxication with indoor and outdoor cats,” says. Her primary medical interests are preventive medicine and client education. Some cats are attracted to flowers for their taste or texture. Lilacs have a slightly bitter taste, which may deter cats from eating them. And some can present other challenges, like a rose with its prickly stem. If you have a cat and are looking for flowers and plants that are poisonous to cats, then this post is for you! Keep in mind that even non-poisonous flowers for cats can cause some gastric upset. Other To Cats. Plants produce toxins as a survival mechanism, says. Signs of flower poisoning in cats are not always immediately obvious, either. Know what type of plants and flowers can be deadly to your cat. Daffodil poisoning requires medical intervention. In fact, they're so dangerous they can even be deadl... Did you know that certain flowers - including lilies, irises and chrysanthemums - are poisonous to cats? With more than 25,000 species of orchids however, it’s best to check with a professional. Common blooms like lilies, poppies and marigolds can be harmful as well as seasonal plants like mistletoe and poinsettia. She has a strong interest in crafting content that will inspire and help pet parents make informed decisions. In a worst-case scenario, a cat who ingests orchids might experience mild vomiting and diarrhea, says Bischoff. “They contain multiple toxic compounds that can cause vomiting, hyper-salivation, diarrhea, incoordination, and even skin inflammation from contact with some varieties,” explains Kelley. Any part, even just a leaf or pollen, can cause kidney failure and death. I cannot emphasize enough – do not buy lilies for your home if you have cats. We know, roses can be so cliché for Valentine’s Day…but there’s no doubt that roses are beautiful. ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants, Save Ralph Campaign Seeks To End Cosmetic Animal Testing, How to Protect Your Pet at the Vet Amid COVID, Royal Canin and The Kitten Lady Team Up to Train Foster Families During Coronavirus, How to Control Odors Naturally When You Live with a Cat in a Small Space, 3 CATastrophic Poisoning Dangers for Cats. It’s particularly toxic to cats because it has alkaloid colchicine content, which is highly toxic. Let our authors & experts know what you think. The toxicity of various plants and flowers can range from mild to severe, depending on the poisonous component of the plant. But, generally, the following flowers are considered safe for cats: *These lists are not all-inclusive, so if you’re unsure about any plant, it’s safest to check with a professional. Having cats in your home is like having young children. , a board-certified veterinary toxicologist at the New York State Animal Health Diagnostic Center in Ithaca, New York. Here’s a list of five great flowers you can get for Valentine’s Day (or any occasion) and feel good that these flowers will be a hit with your loved one and non-toxic to your cat (also a loved one). Gerbera daisies are such a happy flower. Keep in mind that any contact with these and other toxic flowers for cats can be dangerous. Astilbe Erica Freesia Greenbell Lisianthus Limonium Olive Pitto Pussy willow Roses Snapdragons Statice Stock Trachelium Veronica Waxflower; Slightly poisonous plants to cats. (But they’re so pretty!!!) Find out more in our visual guides below, or keep scrolling for a list of flowers that are … Larkspur. Larkspur is another poisonous flower that has affected cattle’s heavily in the western US. Ironically, pyrethrin flea sprays were once made from chrysanthemum flowers, says Bischoff. One of spring’s most aromatic flowers, the common lilac (. ) “With some plants, a single exposure could be life threatening.”, Cats love to dig through potting soil, says Lund, so pet parents can take steps to make potted plants and flowers unappealing to cats. This beautiful flower is mentioned in the Song of Solomon as a comparison to The Beloved. Experts say roses have not been associated with poisoning in cats. “I would expect hydrangeas to cause a more severe gastric and intestinal irritation, possibly bloody diarrhea.”, Always research the flower you’re planning to purchase, whether it’s an indoor or outdoor plant, recommends Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director at ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center and a board-certified veterinary toxicologist. “The prognosis for a cat with lily poisoning is poor to grave.”. https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/flowers-that-are-dangerous-for-pets Hydrangeas are woody plants that yield rounded clusters of flowers in colors like white, lavender, and blue. “The prognosis for a cat with lily poisoning is poor to grave.”, All parts of the plant, including the pollen, should be avoided as they can, are some of autumn’s most widely-grown flowers, presenting in deep orange, burgundy, purple, and yellow. I’ve seen great deals on beautiful orchids at many places including Trader Joe’s and Home Depot, to name a few. This doesn’t mean you need to completely give up flowers. , an emergency veterinarian at BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Hospital in Clearwater, Florida. , a veterinarian with City Kitty Veterinary Care for Cats in Providence, Rhode Island. You’ll find a full array of plants and flowers that are both toxic and non-toxic to cats. They look … But keep it out of reach of your cat. “This plant is very toxic. It can cause more severe gastrointestinal distress, and also muscle weakness, tremors, and seizures if ingested,” says Bischoff. “They are likely to know about a change in their environment and often investigate it, which is when they are exposed,” he says. Yew - This slow-growing, drought-resistant shrub is a sight to behold when it spreads, but it's dangerous for dogs, cats, horses, cattles, and people. Be the first to hear about cat-related news and offers! Although they look pretty, they can be poisonous to cats. They have beautiful smells and appearance, but their bulb flowers contain toxic alkaloids, which are dangerous to cats. The plants contain the chemical ranunculin, which, when crushed or chewed, becomes the toxin protoanemonin. With more than 25,000 species of orchids however, it’s best to check with a professional. Even if cats do make contact with lilacs, they shouldn’t become seriously ill, says Bischoff, who frequently cuts lilacs in the spring and places them around her own home. One caveat, however, is the thorny stem of roses, which can cause pain or discomfort to an unsuspecting cat. Whether you're choosing beautiful blooms for a bouquet or wondering what indoor plants to get, you'll need to be wary of the flowers that are hazardous to your cat. Keep in mind that even non-poisonous flowers for cats can cause some gastric upset. Sunflowers are mostly native to North America and are a great source of nutrition for humans…. According to Pet Poison Helpline, lilies (of the Lilium genus) are one of the top ten cat poisons. Most orchids are considered safe for cats. For example, while the common lilac plant (, ) is not considered poisonous to cats, the Persian lilac of the. “They c. ontain multiple toxic compounds that can cause vomiting, hyper-salivation, diarrhea, incoordination, and even skin inflammation from contact with some varieties,” explains Kelley. This classic flower is fun to put in your hair, a crown or a bouquet. You can call them narcissus, paperwhite, or jonquil. “Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that can cause some skin irritation, increased salivation, nausea, and vomiting in cats, both because of the effects on nerves and because they have a very bitter flavor. They come in beautiful vibrant colors and usually last up to a week. “It is best to familiarize yourself with the list of toxic plants and keep these types of plants out of your home or garden for the health and safety of your pet.”, If you do keep a toxic plant, keep it out of kitty’s reach. Symptoms When Cats Eat Poisonous Plants If your cat loves to nibble the leaves of plants you should be careful, since there are many varieties that can be toxic or poisonous, causing eye damage, dermatitis, digestive disorders, kidney, and even disturbances of the nervous system. Dr. Cathy Barnette is a small animal veterinarian with 13 years of clinical experience. Cat friendly plants. Some cats are attracted to flowers for their taste or texture. Even if you’re careful about what you plant outside on your own property, you can’t control what your neighbors grow. Daffodil bulbs have crystals on the outer layers that are particularly hazardous to cats if ingested. I have omitted some plants which are only toxic if certain parts are ingested (such as tulips). Our content and products are for informational purposes only. All Rights Reserved 2021. My cat ate a leaf! genus) are one of the top ten cat poisons. ) “It can cause incoordination sometimes,” Dr. Lewis says. While not deathly toxic, they can cause nasty tummy or skin irritation when eaten (mouth irritation, vomiting, digestive irritation). When reviewing any list of non-poisonous or poisonous plants for cats, keep in mind that some names can be misleading. Help! Depending on the type of flower and amount ingested, symptoms can vary from mild to fatal, says Kelley. Amaryllis, or the belladonna lily, is a bulb plant with white to reddish, trumpet-shaped flowers. These yellow-petaled flowers with a brown interior disc are cheerful and yield edible seeds. and taking steps to prevent access to them can go a long way to keeping your cat safe. Flowers that bloom in summer and fall can be pink, red, blue, lavender, white or purple. Ironically, pyrethrin flea sprays were once made from chrysanthemum flowers, says Bischoff. Sign up for our newsletter to stay in-the-know. One of spring’s most aromatic flowers, the common lilac (Syringa vulgaris) is a violet-colored shrub that can also come in shades of lavender, burgundy, white, yellow, and blue. These flowers are also non-poisonous to dogs or cats, but you need to be careful about the stems and leaves as they may have resin or fiber which may cause some skin allergies. Is the alstroemeria flower poisonous to cats? reports that both indoor and outdoor plants are among the top 10 toxins pets most frequently ingest. And the great news is that they are non-toxic to cats! shouldn’t become seriously ill, says Bischoff, who frequently cuts lilacs in the spring and places them around her own home. “Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that can cause some skin irritation, increased salivation, nausea, and vomiting in cats, both because of the effects on nerves and because they have a very bitter flavor.”. Sunflowers can make anyone’s day brighter. “Typically, this includes making a physical barrier,” adds Wismer. Please note that this list of dangerous plants and flowers is by no means an exhaustive list. Veterinarians recommend preventing cats’ access to the following flowers. Alstroemeria are not traditional lilies which are extremely toxic to cats. All parts of the plant are toxic with the bulbs being the most dangerous. Either way, gerbera daisies are a safe choice when you have cats in the house. […] Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale), also called meadow saffron or naked lady is a popular flowering plant that is poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses. Unfortunately, daisies are another flower that is quite poisonous for cats. Narcissus (Daffodils Inclusive) These species of plants are flowering spring perennials.