20 common flowers that are toxic to cats

Flowers can be a wonderful addition to any home, adding beauty and fragrance to a living space. However, it is important to be aware of which flowers are toxic to pets, especially cats. Cats are known for their curious and inquisitive nature, and they may accidentally ingest plants that are harmful to them. Here are 20 common household flowers that are toxic to cats….

Lilies

1. Lilies are highly toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure. All parts of the plant are toxic, including the leaves, stems, flowers, and pollen.

2. Azaleas: Azaleas are toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to coma or death.

3. Daffodils: Daffodils contain lycorine, which is toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and convulsions.

4. Tulips: Tulips contain toxic glycosides that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and difficulty breathing.

Hyacinths

5. Hyacinths contain toxic alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.

6. Amaryllis: Amaryllis contains lycorine, which is toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and convulsions.

7. Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of coordination.

8. Carnations: Carnations contain dianthol, which is toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

9. English Ivy: English Ivy is toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.

10. Geraniums: Geraniums contain geraniol, which is toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

11. Holly: Holly is toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression.

Morning Glories

12. Morning Glories contain indole alkaloids, which are toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

13. Oleander: Oleander is highly toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and cardiac arrest.

14. Poinsettias: Poinsettias contain a toxic latex sap that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and irritation to the mouth and throat.

15. Rhododendrons: Rhododendrons contain grayanotoxins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.

16. Sago Palm: Sago Palm is highly toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and liver failure.

17. Sweet Peas: Sweet Peas contain toxic amino acids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

18. Wisteria: Wisteria contains lectins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

19. Yew: Yew is highly toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and cardiac arrest.

Baby’s Breath

20. Baby’s Breath contains toxic saponins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

While this list will get you started, please be aware that there are many other plants and flowers can be harmful to our feline friends. Be sure to do your research before bringing new plants into your home, and when in doubt, consult your vet! If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. Quick action can be the difference between life and death.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center:  (888) 426-4435