January 28, 2025
Cats are naturally curious creatures. But sometimes, this can get them into trouble. While plants are a great way to freshen up your space at home, not all greenery is safe for our best friends. In fact, many common plants are toxic for cats. This can pose serious risks to your cat’s health, leading to symptoms and conditions that can be dangerous.
Knowing the common plants toxic to cats is an essential part of pet care. To help you, this guide takes a closer look at some of the most popular plants that might be hiding in your home or yard and why they could be dangerous for your curious cat.
These plants should never be a part of your house if you have a cat with you. If your cat has ingested even a tiny amount of these toxic plants, be sure to bring your cat to the clinic right away.
With that said, let’s talk about the 45 plants toxic to cats.
Lilies
Lilies are often the centerpiece of floral bouquets and a favorite among gardeners for their elegant, trumpet-shaped blooms and sweet fragrances. They’re especially popular around Easter and Mother’s Day.
Lilies are known as among the most toxic plants to cats. All of the plant’s parts, such as the leaves, flowers, and pollen, are extremely dangerous. Lilies contain compounds that can cause severe kidney damage in cats, even if only a small amount is ingested.
Some of the common symptoms of lily poisoning in cats include:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Lethargy and depression.
Increased thirst or urination.
Dehydration or drooling.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a common houseplant, and for good reason. Known for its medicinal properties, aloe is often used in skincare and first-aid remedies for burns.
But while it’s beneficial for humans, aloe vera is toxic to cats. Aloe vera contains compounds called saponins, which can irritate your cat’s digestive system. While nibbling on aloe might seem harmless, it can bring painful effects for your cat.
If your cat ingests aloe vera, watch out for these signs:
Vomiting or diarrhea.
Loss of appetite.
Tremors or shaking in severe cases.
Tulips
Tulips are a classic favorite in gardens and bouquets, loved for their bright colors and elegant appearance. They’re a springtime staple, often adorning windowsills or tables in homes.
The bulbs of tulips contain toxic compounds called tulipalin A and B. These compounds can cause gastrointestinal irritation and, in larger amounts, more severe symptoms like convulsions. Cats are particularly at risk because they’re more likely to dig up and chew on the bulbs if they’re accessible.
Tulip poisoning symptoms include:
Drooling and pawing at the mouth.
Vomiting and chronic diarrhea.
Depression.
Increased heart rate or breathing difficulties in severe cases.
Daffodils
Daffodils are iconic spring flowers that brighten up gardens and homes with their vibrant yellow and white blooms. They’re commonly planted in flowerbeds or displayed in vases as cheerful decorations during the spring season.
Daffodils contain a compound called lycorine, a toxic alkaloid that can cause severe reactions in cats. The bulbs are especially dangerous because they contain the highest concentration of toxins, but any part of the plant (flowers, stems, or leaves) can be harmful if ingested.
If your cat nibbles on daffodils, they might experience:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Drooling or excessive salivation.
Abdominal pain or discomfort.
Tremors or convulsions in severe cases.
Cardiac arrhythmias.
Peace Lily
Peace lilies are one of the most popular plants for the house, loved for their glossy green leaves and elegant white blooms. They’re often chosen for their ability to purify the air and their low-maintenance care requirements.
Peace lilies aren’t true lilies, but they’re still toxic to cats because of the calcium oxalate crystals found in the plant. These sharp, insoluble crystals can irritate your cat’s mouth, tongue, and throat, causing discomfort even if only a small amount is ingested.
A cat that chews on a peace lily may show signs such as:
Drooling and excessive pawing at the mouth.
Swelling in the mouth or throat.
Vomiting or nausea.
Difficulty swallowing.
Pothos
Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a favorite among plant lovers due to its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. It’s often found in hanging baskets or climbing walls as a decorative indoor plant.
Just like the peace lily, pothos contain insoluble calcium oxalates. This is one of the toxic plants that can cause oral irritation and digestive problems for cats. This happens when your cat chews on the plants, on parts such as the leaves and stems.
Signs of pothos poisoning in cats include:
Drooling and pawing at the face or mouth.
Swelling in the mouth or tongue.
Vomiting or difficulty swallowing.
Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia, also known as Dumb Cane, is a commonly used indoor plant due to its striking, variegated leaves and ease of care. It’s often found in homes and offices as a low-maintenance plant that thrives in low-light conditions.
Dieffenbachia contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause immediate irritation if chewed. These needle-like crystals embed themselves into the soft tissues of a cat’s mouth, throat, and digestive tract, leading to significant discomfort and distress.
If a cat nibbles on Dieffenbachia, symptoms may include:
Severe drooling and excessive pawing at the mouth.
Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or lips.
Difficulty swallowing or breathing if swelling is significant.
Vomiting and decreased appetite.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are a staple in indoor gardening, known for their heart-shaped leaves and vining growth. They’re loved for their ability to thrive with minimal care, making them a common choice for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Like Dieffenbachia, philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals. When a cat bites into the leaves, stems, or roots, these sharp crystals cause immediate pain and irritation in the mouth and throat.
If your cat chews on a philodendron, they may experience:
Drooling and difficulty swallowing.
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or mouth.
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Reduced appetite due to oral discomfort.
Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe is a flowering succulent often used as a decorative plant thanks to its vibrant blooms in shades of beautiful red, pink, yellow, or orange. It’s a low-maintenance plant, making it a popular choice for homes and gardens.
Kalanchoe contains compounds called bufadienolides, which can affect a cat’s heart and gastrointestinal system if ingested. While nibbling on the plant can cause mild symptoms, larger amounts can lead to more severe health issues.
Signs of kalanchoe poisoning include:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Lethargy and loss of appetite.
Cyclamen
Cyclamen plants are prized for their delicate, colorful flowers and heart-shaped leaves. They’re commonly used as potted plants or holiday decorations. These beautiful plants make for a great addition to any household.
Cyclamen contains toxic compounds called triterpene glycoside, which can cause severe reactions in cats. The highest concentration of toxins is found in the roots or tubers, making it especially dangerous if cats dig into the soil.
If your cat ingests cyclamen, you may notice:
Excessive drooling and vomiting.
Diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Heart abnormalities and seizures in severe cases.
Poinsettia
Poinsettias are a holiday classic, instantly recognizable by their vibrant red and green leaves. They’re a popular choice for Christmas decorations and can be found in many homes during the winter months.
While poinsettias are often considered less dangerous than other toxic plants to cats on this list, they can still cause mild irritation. The plant contains a milky sap that irritates a cat’s mouth, stomach, and skin. While serious poisoning is rare, ingesting larger amounts can lead to discomfort.
If your cat has chewed on poinsettia leaves, you might notice:
Drooling or nausea.
Vomiting or mild diarrhea.
Pawing at the mouth.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, often called mums, are beloved for their bright, cheerful blooms. They’re frequently used in gardens and as potted plants for seasonal decorations, especially in the fall.
Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrin and lactones, which can cause irritation and more severe reactions in cats if ingested. These compounds are also found in some pesticides, which adds to their potential toxicity.
If your cat chews on chrysanthemums, it can experience:
Drooling and vomiting.
Diarrhea and loss of appetite.
In rare cases, lack of coordination or tremors.
English Ivy
English ivy is a classic plant often used to create lush greenery in gardens or as a trailing indoor plant. Its elegant, cascading vines make it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor decoration.
English ivy contains triterpenoid saponins, which are toxic to cats. Chewing on the leaves can irritate the cat’s digestive tract and cause discomfort. The severity of the reaction depends on how much of the plant the cat ingests.
A cat that chews on English ivy may display:
Drooling or hypersalivation.
Vomiting or diarrhea.
Abdominal pain or discomfort.
Snake Plant
Snake plants are trendy, low-maintenance houseplants that are perfect for beginners. Also known as the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, its sword-shaped leaves add a modern, tropical touch to any space, making them a favorite in homes and offices.
Snake plants contain saponins, which can cause mild to moderate reactions in cats if ingested. Mostly, gastrointestinal irritation is to be expected. Although not typically life-threatening, the plant can still make your cat feel quite uncomfortable. In some cases,
If your cat ingests a snake plant, you might notice:
Nausea and vomiting.
Diarrhea or loose stools.
Lethargy or reduced activity levels.
Abdominal pain and dehydration in some cases.
Rubber Plant
Rubber plants are loved for their thick, glossy leaves and their ability to survive in lots of different indoor environments. They’re often chosen for their striking appearance and air-purifying qualities.
Rubber plants contain compounds that can irritate a cat’s mouth and digestive system. While not as toxic as some other plants, ingestion can still cause noticeable discomfort for your pet.
If your cat eats a rubber plant, symptoms might include:
Drooling and pawing at the mouth.
Vomiting or diarrhea.
Mild skin irritation if the sap comes into contact with their fur or skin.
Loss of appetite and lethargy.
Azaleas
Azaleas are a type of rhododendron and are prized for their vibrant clusters of flowers, which bloom in a beautiful range of colors like pink, red, white, and purple. They’re popular in landscaping and gardens for their striking appearance.
Azaleas contain grayanotoxins, which can disrupt normal heart and muscle function in cats. Even small amounts can cause serious symptoms, so these plants are especially dangerous if your cat has access to a garden with azaleas.
If your cat ingests azaleas, watch for the following signs:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Drooling or loss of appetite.
Weakness or lethargy.
Collapse and seizures in severe cases.
Amaryllis
Amaryllis is a show-stopping plant known for its tall stems and large, trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of red, pink, white, and orange. It’s especially popular as a decorative plant during the holiday season.
Amaryllis contains lycorine, a toxic alkaloid that can cause severe reactions in cats. The highest concentration of toxins is found in the bulb, but every part of the plant poses a risk if ingested.
If a cat nibbles on amaryllis, they might experience:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Drooling.
Lethargy and loss of appetite.
Abdominal discomfort.
Low blood pressure and tremors.
Sago Palm
Sago palms are a popular ornamental plant, both indoors and outdoors, due to their tropical appearance and hardy nature. They’re frequently used in landscaping and as decorative plants.
Sago palms are some of the most toxic plants to cats. All of the plant’s parts have cycasin, a toxin that can cause liver damage in cats. The seeds are the most toxic and can be fatal even in small quantities.
Sago palm poisoning is extremely dangerous and can result in:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Lethargy and weakness.
Jaundice and abdominal pain.
Seizures, tremors, or even death in severe cases.
Autumn Crocus
Autumn crocus is a late-blooming plant valued for its delicate purple, pink, or white flowers. It’s often used in gardens to add a splash of color during cooler months.
Autumn crocus contains colchicine, a highly toxic alkaloid that can cause complicated health problems in cats. Ingesting even small amounts can lead to potentially fatal complications.
Signs of autumn crocus poisoning include:
Severe vomiting and diarrhea, with blood in some cases.
Oral irritation and drooling.
Difficulty breathing.
Daisy
Daisies are cheerful, classic flowers that are often used in gardens, bouquets, and decorative arrangements. Their simple beauty and wide availability make them a popular choice for flower lovers.
Yes, certain types of daisies, particularly those in the Chrysanthemum genus, are toxic to cats. These daisies contain compounds such as pyrethrins and sesquiterpenes that can harm your cat if ingested.
If a cat chews on daisies, they may experience symptoms such as:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Excessive drooling and hypersalivation.
Incoordination or difficulty walking.
Skin irritation or dermatitis if contact is done.
Oleander
Oleander is a favorite in warm climates for its beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of pink, white, red, and yellow. Often used in gardens and landscaping, this plant is hardy and requires minimal maintenance, making it a common choice in residential areas.
Oleander contains cardiac glycosides, potent compounds that interfere with the normal function of the heart. Even a small nibble of any part of the plant (leaves, flowers, stems, or seeds) can cause severe reactions in cats. This makes oleander one of the most toxic plants to cats.
If your cat ingests oleander, these are the indicators:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Lethargy and weakness.
Changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
Dehydration.
Foxglove
Foxglove is a beautiful plant that adds height and elegance to gardens with its tall, bell-shaped flowers in colors of light purple, pink, and bright white. Its eye-catching blooms make it a popular choice for cottage-style gardens and borders.
Foxglove contains cardiac glycosides, compounds that affect the heart and can cause severe reactions in cats. Even a small amount of ingestion, whether from leaves, flowers, or seeds, can result in serious toxicity.
Symptoms in cats include:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Excessive drooling and weakness.
Abnormal heart rhythms.
In severe cases, tremors or death.
Wisteria
Wisteria is an ornamental plant famous for its clusters of fragrant purple or white flowers. Its enchanting appearance and sweet fragrance make it a favorite for creating romantic garden settings.
However, all parts of the wisteria plant, particularly its seeds and pods, are toxic to cats. The plant contains lectins and wisterin glycoside, which can severely irritate the gastrointestinal tract when ingested.
Symptoms of wisteria poisoning include:
Vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes with blood
Lethargy and weakness.
Dehydration and depression.
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are adored for their vibrant flower clusters in shades of blue, pink, white, and purple, often used to enhance gardens, patios, and floral arrangements. Their lush blooms make them a common decorative plant in households.
All parts of hydrangeas are toxic to cats. Hydrangeas contain cyanogenic glycosides, which release cyanide when broken down. While severe poisoning is uncommon, even small ingestions can cause discomfort in cats.
Here are the signs you’ll see if your cat ingests hydrangea:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Lethargy and weakness.
Confusion or disorientation.
Morning Glory
Morning glories are striking climbing plants with trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant hues like blue, purple, and white. Their fast-growing vines make them a favorite for covering fences, trellises, and walls in gardens.
The seeds of morning glories are especially toxic to cats, as they contain lysergic alkaloids, which can affect the central nervous system.
Symptoms of poisoning from these toxic plants to cats include:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Restlessness or agitation.
Tremors and shaking.
Disorientation or stumbling.
Jade Plant
Jade plants are hardy succulents with thick, shiny leaves, often kept as houseplants for their easy care and minimal watering needs. They’re a common choice for desks, windowsills, or small indoor planters.
The exact compounds that make jade plants toxic are unknown, but ingestion can lead to mild to moderate symptoms in cats.
Some of the symptoms include:
Vomiting.
Depression or lethargic behavior.
Incoordination or difficulty walking.
Slower heart rate.
Bird of Paradise
Bird of paradise is a tropical plant housing bright flowers that look like a bird in flight. It is often used as a decorative houseplant or featured in outdoor gardens in warmer regions. Its exotic beauty makes it a standout choice for adding color and texture to any home space.
The plant contains hydrocyanic acid, a compound that can irritate a cat’s digestive system and cause discomfort. Although the flowers are the most visually appealing part, all parts of the plant can pose a risk to your feline companion if ingested.
If your cat ingests bird of paradise, the signs are:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Lethargy and weakness.
Drooling and drowsiness.
Chinese Evergreen
Chinese evergreen is a popular houseplant with lush, variegated leaves that thrive in low-light conditions. Its easy maintenance makes it a favorite in homes and offices, often featured as a statement plant in living spaces.
This plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which are needle-like crystals that irritate a cat’s mouth and throat when chewed. Even a small bite of the leaves can lead to immediate discomfort, causing your cat to avoid eating further.
If your cat ingests Chinese evergreen, the signs are:
Drooling and pawing at the mouth.
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat.
Oral irritation.
Clivia Lily
Clivia lily is a striking plant known for its bright orange or red trumpet-shaped flowers, making it a popular choice for homes and small gardens. Its long, strap-like leaves and amazing blooms are often the reasons.
Clivia lily contains lycorine, a toxic alkaloid that can disrupt a cat’s digestive system. The bulbs are particularly dangerous, holding higher concentrations of the toxin than the flowers or leaves, and can lead to more severe effects if consumed.
The signs are:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Drooling or excessive salivation.
Tremors or muscle spasms.
Sweet Pea
Sweet pea is a climbing plant with delicate, fragrant flowers in pink, purple, and white. Its sweet-smelling blooms make it a favorite in gardens and floral arrangements, adding both beauty and fragrance to any setting.
Despite its dainty appearance, sweet pea contains aminopropionitrile, a compound that can affect the nervous system if consumed. While mild exposure may only upset the stomach, larger amounts can lead to more severe neurological symptoms.
If your cat ingests sweet peas, the signs are:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Weakness or lethargy.
Tremors, seizures, or death in severe cases.
Crown of Thorns
Crown of thorns is a hardy plant with thick, thorny stems and small red or pink flowers, often used as a decorative houseplant or in outdoor gardens. Its ability to survive and grow in dry conditions makes it popular among those who prefer low-maintenance greenery.
The plant has a milky sap that is highly irritating to both the skin and digestive system. If ingested, it can cause significant discomfort for cats and may lead to more pronounced symptoms if consumed in larger quantities.
Some symptoms include:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Weakness and collapse.
Drooling and abdominal pain.
Skin irritation and eye swelling on contact with sap.
Pencil Cactus
Pencil cactus is a unique succulent known for its pencil-thin, green branches, often used as a modern decorative plant indoors or outdoors. Its striking, minimalist appearance makes it a trendy choice for homes and offices, especially in sunny spaces.
Pencil cactus contains a toxic sap that can irritate the skin, eyes, and digestive system. Cats that chew on pencil cactus may experience mild to moderate symptoms, depending on how much they ingest or come into contact with.
If your cat ingests pencil cactus, the signs are:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Drooling or pawing at the mouth.
Redness or swelling around the mouth or eyes.
Umbrella Tree
The umbrella tree is a popular plant with glossy, umbrella-shaped leaves, often kept indoors for its attractive appearance and easy care. It’s a common feature in homes and offices, adding a touch of greenery to spaces with minimal sunlight.
This plant contains saponins and calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation when chewed or ingested. As a result of these compounds, your cat will feel pain and discomfort in its mouth and digestive system.
Common signs include:
Drooling and excessive salivation.
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Swelling of the tongue, lips, or mouth.
Skin irritation and pacing.
Lantana
Lantana is a vibrant flowering plant commonly found in gardens and landscapes. This plant is known for its clusters of bright flowers in shades of orange, pink, yellow, and red. Its hardy nature and ability to bloom throughout the year make it a popular choice for outdoor spaces.
However, lantana contains pentacyclic triterpenoids, compounds that can cause significant toxicity in cats if ingested. The berries and leaves are particularly dangerous and can lead to both digestive and systemic symptoms.
If your cat ingests Lantana, the signs are:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Weakness or lethargy.
Liver failure.
Difficulty breathing.
Clematis
Clematis is a popular climbing vine with delicate, star-shaped flowers in a variety of colors, often used to decorate fences, trellises, and walls. Its romantic, cascading blooms make it a favorite in cottage gardens and landscaping designs.
Despite its charm, clematis contains protoanemonins, toxic compounds that can irritate a cat’s digestive system and skin. These are prominent in the leaves and stems of the plan. Even mild exposure can cause unpleasant symptoms.
The common symptoms are:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Hypersalivation or pawing at the mouth.
Skin irritation if the sap is touched.
Liver and kidney damage in severe cases.
Lily of the Valley
The lily of the valley is a beautiful plant known for its small, bell-shaped white flowers. Often used in gardens or as ground cover, it is cherished for its beauty and sweet scent, making it a favorite in landscaping and floral arrangements.
Despite its charm, the lily of the valley contains cardiac glycosides, which can interfere with the normal rhythm of the heart. Even a small ingestion can cause severe symptoms, making it highly dangerous for cats.
Signs that your cat has ingested lily of the valley include:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Drooling or excessive salivation.
Weakness, slow heart rate, or irregular heartbeat.
Seizures and coma in severe cases.
Gardenia
Gardenias are known for their creamy white, fragrant flowers, and glossy green leaves, often used to beautify gardens, patios, and even indoor spaces. The rich fragrance makes them a favorite choice for ornamental purposes.
While beautiful, gardenias contain toxic compounds that can irritate a cat’s digestive system. The flowers, leaves, and berries are all potentially harmful if chewed or ingested by your cat.
If your cat ingests Gardenia, the signs are:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Presence of skin hives.
Elephant Ear
Elephant ear is a striking plant known for its large, dramatic, heart-shaped leaves, often used to add a bold, tropical look to indoor spaces or gardens. Its unique appearance and vibrant green foliage make it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts.
This plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause immediate irritation when chewed. These crystals can create problems in a cat’s mouth, throat, and digestive tract, leading to significant discomfort.
Signs of elephant ear toxicity include:
Drooling and excessive salivation.
Oral irritation and difficulty swallowing.
Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or lips.
Vomiting.
Silver Dollar Plant
The silver dollar plant is a type of succulent with round, silvery-green leaves that resemble coins. It’s commonly kept indoors as a decorative plant, appreciated for its unique appearance and low-maintenance nature.
Although the exact toxic compounds are unknown, ingestion of this plant can cause significant discomfort for cats. Cats may experience digestive upset after chewing on the leaves.
If your cat ingests this plant, the signs include:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Drooling and nausea.
Lethargy and seizures in severe cases.
Boston Ivy
Boston Ivy is a climbing plant often used to cover walls, fences, or trellises. Its fast-growing nature and striking seasonal colors make it a popular choice for outdoor spaces.
This plant contains oxalates and saponins that can cause digestive upset in cats if they ingest any part of the plant. The berries and leaves are especially toxic and can lead to more severe symptoms if consumed in larger quantities.
If your cat ingests Boston Ivy, the signs are:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Abdominal pain or discomfort.
Drooling or excessive salivation.
Anthurium
Anthuriums, with their glossy heart-shaped leaves and brightly colored flowers, are popular houseplants often used to add a bold, tropical vibe to indoor spaces. Their striking appearance makes them a favorite for decorative purposes in homes and offices.
This plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause immediate irritation and discomfort if chewed by cats. The sharp crystals can embed in the tissues of the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, resulting in painful symptoms.
If your cat ingests anthurium, possible signs include:
Oral irritation.
Drooling and pawing at the mouth.
Vomiting and difficulty swallowing.
Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or lips.
Asparagus Fern
Asparagus fern is a popular houseplant and garden choice due to its delicate, feathery foliage and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. It’s often displayed in hanging baskets or used as ground cover outdoors.
The berries of the asparagus fern are particularly toxic to cats because of the saponins. However, the leaves themselves can also cause mild irritation. Cats that chew on this plant may experience both digestive and skin-related symptoms.
Signs of asparagus fern toxicity include:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Abdominal pain or discomfort.
Allergic dermatitis.
Gladiola
Gladiolas are elegant flowering plants often used in bouquets and gardens for their tall, colorful spikes of blooms in shades of red, pink, yellow, and white. These flowers are especially popular in floral arrangements for special occasions and living rooms.
The bulbs of gladiolas are the most toxic part, though the flowers and leaves can also cause issues if ingested. Cats are particularly at risk if they dig up and chew on the bulbs.
Common symptoms include:
Drooling and excessive salivation.
Vomiting and difficulty swallowing.
Lethargy and diarrhea.
Hyacinth
Hyacinths are popular spring flowers known for their dense, fragrant flower spikes in vibrant shades of purple, pink, blue, and white. They’re often used in gardens, window boxes, or as potted plants to brighten up indoor and outdoor spaces.
The bulbs of hyacinths are particularly toxic to cats, containing high levels of calcium oxalates and other irritants. Cats that chew on the bulbs are at greater risk of severe symptoms, though the leaves and flowers can also cause discomfort.
Potential signs of toxicity include:
Depression and drooling.
Vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes with blood.
Difficulty breathing and tremors in severe cases.
Yew
Yew is an evergreen shrub or tree often used in hedges, gardens, and landscaping for its rich green needles and red berries. Its year-round beauty makes it a popular choice for outdoor spaces, particularly in temperate climates.
Yew contains taxine, which is highly toxic to cats. All parts of the plant, including the needles, bark, and seeds, are dangerous and can lead to serious, life-threatening symptoms.
If your cat ingests yew, the signs are:
Vomiting and diarrhea.
Trembling, seizures, or muscle weakness.
Difficulty breathing.
Changes in blood pressure.
A peaceful home is one where every choice reflects love and care. Cats need a sanctuary where they can thrive, a place away from dangers and toxic plants. They deserve a home where they can be themselves.
- Dr. Rokas Proscevicius
Conclusion
Making your home and garden safe for your cats means knowing which plants are dangerous and taking steps to prevent accidental ingestion. From common houseplants like lilies and peace lilies to outdoor favorites like azaleas and sago palms, there are plenty of toxic plants for cats that can pose serious health risks.
If you think your cat has ingested a toxic plant, don’t wait. Contact the vets to get emergency care. Fortunately, there are still other plants that are safe for a beautiful home addition. You just need to find the right one for you and your cat.
Subscribe to Our
Newsletter
Sign up for weekly pet health tips and insights from our veterinarians.
