Pet emergency
My cat ate Summer Skies delphinium — what to do
Step by step
- Take summer skies delphinium 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 summer skies delphinium — FAQ
Is summer skies delphinium poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Summer Skies delphinium (Delphinium elatum 'Summer Skies') as toxic to cats. As a cultivar of Delphinium elatum, 'Summer Skies' contains the same diterpene alkaloids found across the genus. All parts are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses per the ASPCA. Ingestion causes neuromuscular effects and can be fatal. Wear gloves when handling; keep away from children and pets.
How serious is it if my cat ate summer skies delphinium?
Summer Skies delphinium 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. As a cultivar of Delphinium elatum, 'Summer Skies' contains the same diterpene alkaloids found across the genus. All parts are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses per the ASPCA. Ingestion causes neuromuscular effects and can be fatal. Wear gloves when handling; keep away from children and 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 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 summer skies delphinium well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is summer skies delphinium toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Summer Skies delphinium and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide