Pet emergency
My cat ate Parrot Gladiolus — what to do
Step by step
- Take parrot gladiolus 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 parrot gladiolus — FAQ
Is parrot gladiolus poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Parrot Gladiolus (Gladiolus dalenii) as toxic to cats. All parts of Gladiolus are toxic to cats, dogs, and horses according to the ASPCA. The corms are the most concentrated source of toxic compounds; ingestion causes salivation, vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhea. Contact with sap may irritate skin.
How serious is it if my cat ate parrot gladiolus?
Parrot Gladiolus 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. All parts of Gladiolus are toxic to cats, dogs, and horses according to the ASPCA. The corms are the most concentrated source of toxic compounds; ingestion causes salivation, vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhea. Contact with sap may irritate skin. 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 parrot gladiolus well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is parrot gladiolus toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Parrot Gladiolus and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide