Pet emergency
My cat ate Pyrenean Star of Bethlehem — what to do
Step by step
- Take pyrenean star of bethlehem 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 a poison-control line — (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK. Both charge a consultation fee. 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 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK.
My cat ate pyrenean star of bethlehem — FAQ
Is pyrenean star of bethlehem poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Pyrenean Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum pyrenaicum) as toxic to cats. The ASPCA lists Ornithogalum species as toxic to cats and dogs, containing cardenolide cardiac glycosides throughout all plant parts. Symptoms of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhoea, excess salivation, lethargy, and potential cardiac effects in significant amounts; keep away from all pets.
How serious is it if my cat ate pyrenean star of bethlehem?
Pyrenean Star of Bethlehem is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, 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. The ASPCA lists Ornithogalum species as toxic to cats and dogs, containing cardenolide cardiac glycosides throughout all plant parts. Symptoms of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhoea, excess salivation, lethargy, and potential cardiac effects in significant amounts; keep away from all pets. 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 a poison-control specialist specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep pyrenean star of bethlehem well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Type any plant to see what the ASPCA says about it and your cat.
Related
- Is pyrenean star of bethlehem toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Pyrenean Star of Bethlehem and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide
- Best plant app for pet owners — which apps actually flag ASPCA toxicity before you buy the plant