Pet emergency
My cat ate Bulbous Corydalis — what to do
Step by step
- Take bulbous corydalis away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My cat ate bulbous corydalis — FAQ
Is bulbous corydalis poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Bulbous Corydalis (Corydalis bulbosa) as toxic to cats. Corydalis species contain isoquinoline alkaloids (including corydaline and bulbocapnine) throughout all plant parts, including the tuber. These alkaloids are toxic to dogs and cats, with reported effects including ataxia, tremors, and cardiovascular depression. ASPCA lists Corydalis as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Keep pets away from all plant parts, particularly the tubers.
How serious is it if my cat ate bulbous corydalis?
Bulbous Corydalis is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Corydalis species contain isoquinoline alkaloids (including corydaline and bulbocapnine) throughout all plant parts, including the tuber. These alkaloids are toxic to dogs and cats, with reported effects including ataxia, tremors, and cardiovascular depression. ASPCA lists Corydalis as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Keep pets away from all plant parts, particularly the tubers. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my cat vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep bulbous corydalis well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is bulbous corydalis toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Bulbous Corydalis and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide