Knowing the most common indoor and outdoor plants that are toxic to cats just might save your cat’s life.
No one knows exactly why, but cats are notorious for nibbling on plants and flowers, even though cats are obligate carnivores (most of a cat’s diet should be meat).
Cat grass growing kits are popular with cat owners since they provide a safe and easy way to let cats give in to their perplexing urge to graze. While this type of diversion can help, it’s more important to keep the wrong plants out of your cat’s reach.
Top 5 Plants Safe For Cats (And 5 To Avoid!)
Read on to learn about some of the most common plants that are toxic to cats.
Top 10 Most Common House Plants That Are Toxic to Cats
Although many plants can be toxic to cats, a few of the most dangerous and most common include the following:
#1 Lilies
Many types of lilies, including those commonly bought around the holidays, are toxic to cats. While all parts of the plant are deadly, the flowers are particularly potent, causing severe illness with just a nibble.
Lilies are the most dangerous plant for cats. Many different types of lilies (Lilium spp.) can make cats seriously ill, including Easter lilies, daylilies, Asiatic and Japanese lilies, stargazer lilies, tiger lilies, Western lilies, and wood lilies.
All parts of the lily plant are deadly to cats, but the flowers are especially toxic. Cats need only consume a tiny amount of plant material to suffer severe effects (vomiting, lack of appetite, lethargy, kidney failure, and death). Lilies and cats simply don’t mix.
It’s best to ban this flower from your home and yard if you have cats.
#2 Autumn Crocus
The autumn crocus is extremely toxic to cats. Especially if your cat goes outside, it’s important to ensure that he can’t get a nibble of this common outdoor plant.
The autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale), sometimes called the meadow saffron or naked lady is extremely toxic to cats (and dogs and horses, to a lesser degree) due to its alkaloid colchicine content. Cats that ingest autumn crocus might start acting sick right away or days later.
Symptoms of autumn crocus poisoning in cats may include drooling, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, breathing difficulties, seizures, and death. This outdoor plant should be avoided for a cat-owning household, especially if your cats go outside.
#3 Azaleas And Rhododendrons
Eating a tiny amount of azaleas or rhododendrons could make a cat seriously ill.
Azaleas and rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.) contain poisonous compounds called grayanotoxins that are highly toxic to cats. A cat only needs to consume a minuscule amount of an azalea or rhododendron to become poisoned. Signs of grayanotoxin poisoning in cats may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, weakness, tremors, seizures, coma, and death.
#4 Oleander
All parts of the oleander plant are toxic to cats, causing serious illness if ingested.
Oleander (Nerium oleander) contains cardiac glycoside toxins, which can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, incoordination, tremors, seizures, and death. All parts of the oleander plant are poisonous to cats.
#5 Cyclamen
Every part of the cyclamen or Persian violet plant can poison your cat. The tubers and roots are particularly dangerous.
Cyclamen (Cyclamen spp.) is a common houseplant that’s sold under the name Persian violet. Although the parts that are the most poisonous are below ground (the tubers and roots) all parts of the cyclamen contain saponins, the compound that is toxic to cats. The larger amount the cat swallows, the worse the symptoms will be.
Small amounts of cyclamen may only cause drooling and stomach upset, but large amounts can cause severe symptoms up to and including seizures and death.
#6 Daffodils/Narcissus
Thanks to an alkaloid called lycorine, daffodils are toxic to cats.
Daffodils (also called jonquil or Narcissus), contain lycorine, which typically causes drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain in cats. Rarely, low blood pressure, breathing difficulties and convulsions may be seen. Although all parts of the daffodil plant contain lycorine, the bulbs are the most dangerous part of the plant.
More Plants Toxic To Cats
#7 Marijuana
Cats may exhibit symptoms immediately or up to 12 hours after ingesting marijuana.
(Cannabis sativa), commonly known as pot or weed, is toxic to cats. The toxic compound found in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol, better known as THC. Cats may become poisoned when ingesting the plant itself, or ingesting foods containing concentrated marijuana like baked goods or pot butter.
Signs of marijuana toxicity in cats include dilated pupils or glassy-looking eyes, sedation/lethargy, difficulty walking, vomiting, incoordination, either sleepiness or excitation, excessive salivation, excessive vocalization low blood pressure, low or high body temperature, tremors, seizures, coma and rarely, death.
Cats may exhibit symptoms immediately or up to 12 hours after ingesting marijuana.
#8 Tulips
Tulips can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and tremors
(Tulipa spp.) contain tulipalin A and tulipalin B, which cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, depression and tremors. The toxic compounds are found in all parts of the tulip plant, although the bulbs are the most dangerous.
Similar to tulips, hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis) can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and tremors. Also similar to tulips, the toxic compounds are found in all parts of the hyacinth plant, but the bulbs are the most toxic.
#9 Dieffenbachia
Although the dieffenbachia plant is usually not lethal, these symptoms are painful and extremely unpleasant for cats.
(Dieffenbachia spp.), also known as dumb cane or exotica perfection, contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which cause oral irritation in cats (drooling, difficulty swallowing and vomiting).
Although the dieffenbachia plant is usually not lethal, these symptoms are painful and extremely unpleasant for cats.
#10 Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe poisoning typically cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhea in cats.
(Kalanchoe spp.), also known as mother-in-law plant, contains poisonous compounds called bufadienolides, which typically cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhea in cats.
Some other common plants toxic to cats include amaryllis, calla lily, castor bean, chrysanthemum, foxglove, hydrangea, various species of ivy, lily of the valley, mistletoe, morning glory, peace lily, philodendron, poinsettia, pothos, sago palm, schefflera, and yew.
For a comprehensive list of plants that are toxic to cats and dogs, visit the websites for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or the Pet Poison Helpline.
Signs Of Plant Poisoning In Cats
Some plants and flowers are only mildly toxic and others are downright deadly to cats. Mildly toxic plants might cause drooling or stomach upset (nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea).
Plants and flowers that are highly toxic to cats can cause drooling and stomach upset, as well as tremors, weakness, difficulty walking, lethargy, lack of appetite, seizures, breathing difficulties, kidney and liver failure, heart arrhythmias (heart rate that is too fast or too slow), coma, or even death.
What To Do If Your Cat Eats A Poisonous Plant?
If you know (or even just suspect) that your cat has consumed any amount of any poisonous plant or flower, even just gnawing on leaves or drinking out of the planter or vase, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Time is of the essence here.
In some cases, quick treatment can mean the difference between life and death for your cat. It can help to take photos of the plant your cat ingested, especially if you’re not sure what it is.
You can also call an animal poison control hotline. This can be a life-saving call if it is after hours or a holiday and your veterinarian is not open. Both the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center and the Pet Poison Helpline accept calls 24/7.
To reach the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, call at 888-426-4435. The Pet Poison Helpline phone number is 855-764-7661. Both pet hotlines charge consultation fees via credit card.
How to Keep Your Cat Safe From Toxic Plants?
A cat might drool if she nibbles on a toxic or irritating plant or ingests another poisonous substance.
Do all you can to keep toxic plants far away from your cat’s reach. This can be difficult since cats pretty much climb and explore anywhere they want to!
Sometimes it’s simply best to keep any toxic plant or flower out of your home (and out of your yard, too, if your cat goes outdoors, even occasionally). If you must keep a plant or flower that is not cat-safe, choose a hanging planter that is truly out of your cat’s reach, or dedicate a special room behind closed doors that is completely off-limits to your cat.
FAQs
What is the most toxic plant to cats? ›
Lilies are at the top of the list of poisonous plants for cats, which also includes Asiatic lilies, Easter lilies, Japanese show lilies, rubrum lilies, stargazer lilies, red lilies, tiger lilies, Western lilies, wood lilies, and daylilies.
What house plant is toxic to cats? ›Caladium (Elephant Ear) Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) Ficus (rubber plants, weeping and variegated fig plants) Philodendron.
What plants should not be around cats? ›- Oleander.
- Peace Lily.
- Pothos, Devil's Ivy.
- Sago Palm.
- Spanish Thyme.
- Tulip.
- Yew.
Some common plants that are toxic to cats include: Amaryllis (Amaryllis spp.) Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale) Azaleas and Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.)
Is lavender toxic to cats? ›Lavender is toxic to cats, so they should not consume it in any form, including essential oils or the plant itself. Signs of lavender toxicity in cats include diarrhea, vomiting, and weakness.
Is aloe vera toxic to cats? ›Aloe vera is a common household plant, not because of its attraction but because of its health benefits. Aloe juice and pulp can be used to treat a variety of conditions in people, but it is highly toxic to cats.
Can cats be in the same room as toxic plants? ›To keep your cat safe, we recommend avoiding toxic plants and flowers altogether. Any plants or flowers marked as caution-advised should be kept out of reach, particularly if your cat is a nibbler.
Is Rose toxic to cats? ›Their sweet scent may attract cats over for a taste. Most often find out quickly that the flower is not that yummy, however, a few end up with a penchant for eating the roses. The good news is that roses by themselves are not toxic to cats, says Dr. Maureen K.
What is toxic to cats? ›Some of the most toxic food for cats include onions & garlic, raw eggs & meat, chocolate, alcohol, grapes and raisins. Avoid feeding your cat table scraps, especially around the holidays, as these may contain potentially toxic ingredients.
Are red roses toxic to cats? ›Roses aren't toxic to cats, and this includes rose petals, stems and leaves. But they still don't make a good snack for your cat. “Roses by themselves are not thought to be toxic or dangerous for cats,” Dr.
Do cats know not to eat poisonous plants? ›
Most cats are fastidious creatures and are careful about what they eat. Poisoning in cats is therefore generally rare. It is the young inquisitive cat or kitten that is most at risk of eating harmful plants, particularly household ones. Boredom also has a part to play.
What flower can cats not be around? ›Flowers that are toxic to cats include: True lilies and daylilies. Daffodils. Hyacinths.
What is a flower safe to be around cats? ›Flowers That Are Safe for Cats
Asters. Freesia. Gerber Daisies. Liatris.
Orange and lemon peels (cats dislike citrus smells), cayenne pepper, coffee grounds, pipe tobacco, lavender oil, lemon grass oil, citronella oil, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, & mustard oil.
What can I put around my house to keep cats away? ›To keep cats away from gardens, flower beds, or specific areas of property, scatter fragrant items that don't appeal to a cat's sense of smell, like fresh orange or lemon peels, organic citrus-scented sprays, coffee grounds, vinegar, pipe tobacco, or oil of lavender, lemongrass, citronella, or eucalyptus.
Does cinnamon keep cats away? ›Strong spicy aromas like pepper, curry, and cinnamon also tend to ward off cats. However, we do not recommend using cayenne pepper or other pepper flakes to keep cats out of the garden, as this could potentially harm them. Cinnamon is non-toxic to cats.
Is peppermint toxic to cats? ›Many liquid potpourri products and essential oils, including oil of cinnamon, citrus, pennyroyal, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, tea tree (melaleuca), wintergreen, and ylang ylang, are poisonous to cats. Both ingestion and skin exposure can be toxic.
Is Lemon toxic to cats? ›If you've ever asked yourself, can cats eat lemons? The answer is a firm no. Lemons and other citrus fruits can harm your feline friend because they contain toxic compounds that are poisonous to most domestic pets.
Is Basil toxic to cats? ›Basil is one of the most widely grown herbs safe for cats. As any cat owner knows, they love to chew on whatever they can get their teeth on, and basil is a chewy leaf that is good for them.
Is eucalyptus poisonous to cats? ›Many essential oils, such as eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon, citrus, peppermint, pine, wintergreen, and ylang ylang are straight up toxic to pets. These are toxic whether they are applied to the skin, used in diffusers or licked up in the case of a spill.
Is cactus toxic to cats? ›
Cactus are not toxic if consumed, but their sharp spines make them hazardous to pets all the same. Take particular care with members of the Opuntia (Prickly Pear) genus. They don't always have long spines, but they do have tiny, barbed glochids.
Are spider plants toxic to cats? ›Unlike peace lilies and pothos, Chlorophytum comosum is one houseplant that can be safely nibbled by your kitties without requiring a trip to the emergency animal hospital. According to both the ASPCA and the National Capital Poison Center, aka Poison Control, spider plants are non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Can cats live in a house with plants? ›Living life inside is great for your cat's long-term health and longevity, and indoor plant play fulfills many feline instincts. Outdoors, a cat will certainly check out and nibble at an appealing plant they find on their rounds, even though they're considered carnivores.
Is the snake plant toxic to cats? ›The plant: Snake plant
However, it's toxic to cats, warns the ASCPA. Snake plants contain chemical compounds called saponins, which result in feline nausea, vomiting and diarrhea if consumed or chewed on.
Over 700 indoor/outdoor plants contain toxic substances that are not safe for your dog or cat. Here's a list of the most common toxic houseplants that you should avoid or keep out of reach if you have pets.
Is baby breath toxic to cats? ›BABY'S BREATH
Only mildly toxic, ingestion can still lead to vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and lethargy in your cat.
Lauren Cline, DVM, of Queen City Animal Hospital in Charlotte, N.C., says one or two blossoms probably won't be a big deal because daisies aren't as toxic to cats as some other flowers. But "these flowers can still trigger gastrointestinal issues, like vomiting, diarrhea, and hypersalivation," she adds.
Are Lily toxic to cats? ›The entire lily plant is toxic: the stem, leaves, flowers, pollen, and even the water in a vase. Eating just a small amount of a leaf or flower petal, licking a few pollen grains off its fur while grooming, or drinking the water from the vase can cause your cat to develop fatal kidney failure in less than 3 days.
Can cats eat pineapple? ›From folate to zinc, pineapple is bursting with vitamins and minerals that can help your cat or dog's digestion and immune system. Like any other sugary fruit, it is best to feed pineapple to pets in small quantities. The spikey skin and hard core should be removed before giving to a pet to prevent choking hazards.
Can cats eat banana? ›While many "people foods," like chocolate, are toxic for cats and other pets, and they should be avoided altogether, bananas aren't toxic to pets. It is one of the fruits that cats can eat safely in small portions.
What fruits can cats not eat? ›
The following fruits should not be given to your dog or cat: Cherries: The cherry pit contains cyanide, which is toxic to dogs and can be lethal. Grapes and raisins: These foods can cause serious digestive issues in your pet, including diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy.
Are hydrangeas poisonous to cats? ›Dogs or cats that consume enough hydrangea leaves, flowers and/or buds can suffer from vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, hydrangea poisoning can cause lethargy, depression and confusion.
Can cats smell flowers? ›Flower and plant scents that cats like
Like humans, cats love the smell of roses. Not only are these old favourites nice for a cat's sense of smell, they're even edible. So from time to time, you can give your cat BFF a rose or two.
Many succulents in the euphorbia genus, such as the pencil cactus and crown of thorns, are poisonous to both cats and dogs. Symptoms of poisoning from ingesting this succulent range from gastrointestinal upset to skin and eye irritation.
Which houseplants can be toxic to pets? ›- Lilies. The Lily family of plants is quite large, but some members of it are toxic to dogs and cats. ...
- Aloe Vera. ...
- Ivy (Hedera Helix) ...
- Jade (Crassula Ovata) ...
- Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia) ...
- Elephant Ear (Caladium) ...
- Pothos/Devil's Ivy (Epipremnum Aureum) ...
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas)
May 28, 2020. Living life inside is great for your cat's long-term health and longevity, and indoor plant play fulfills many feline instincts. Outdoors, a cat will certainly check out and nibble at an appealing plant they find on their rounds, even though they're considered carnivores.
Can I have a monstera and a cat? ›Philodendron (and Monstera)
This genus of plants is mildly toxic to humans, and toxic to both dogs and cats. Symptoms of exposure include: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Unlike peace lilies and pothos, Chlorophytum comosum is one houseplant that can be safely nibbled by your kitties without requiring a trip to the emergency animal hospital. According to both the ASPCA and the National Capital Poison Center, aka Poison Control, spider plants are non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Are snake plants cat safe? ›The plant: Snake plant
However, it's toxic to cats, warns the ASCPA. Snake plants contain chemical compounds called saponins, which result in feline nausea, vomiting and diarrhea if consumed or chewed on.
Consider Going Faux for Your Cat
Artificial greenery may not look or smell as good as real plants, but they are a lot safer for your cat. Artificial plants are less of a health risk if your feline takes a nibble, and using them could avoid a pet emergency.
Is pineapple plant toxic to cats? ›
The Bromeliad Pineapple
These fan-worthy fruit plants are totally safe to introduce to your pet. Not only do they produce a juicy pineapple if you take good care of them, but they are the perfect centerpiece and conversation starter.
Lilies. This beautiful unofficial symbol of Spring is among the most toxic flowers to cats. All varieties - including the Easter, Tiger, Stargazer, Red, Wood, and Day - are unsafe. With some flowers, the petals and the buds are the hazards for cats but, with lilies, it's also the pollen, the leaves, and the stems.
Are any herbs toxic to cats? ›Garlic and chives are by and large the most dangerous herbs for your cat. In fact, all members of the allium family—including onions, leeks, scallions, and shallots—are toxic to felines. Even a small ingestion of these can cause damage to your cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia or even death.
Are succulents poisonous to cats? ›Many succulents in the euphorbia genus, such as the pencil cactus and crown of thorns, are poisonous to both cats and dogs. Symptoms of poisoning from ingesting this succulent range from gastrointestinal upset to skin and eye irritation.
Is peace lily toxic to cats? ›17 Nov Peace Lilies And Your Cat
Indeed, Liles in the Lilium and Hemerocallis genus are extremely toxic to cats. There have been case reports of cats grooming their coat after simply brushing past Lilium or Hemerocallis flowers and subsequently developing life-threatening poisoning with kidney failure.
For true Bambusoideae species of bamboo, it is non toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Fun fact: Foliage of bamboo can contain up to 22% protein, so it's even good for them!