Pet emergency
My cat ate Tommies Crocus — what to do
Step by step
- Take tommies crocus 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 tommies crocus — FAQ
Is tommies crocus poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Tommies Crocus (Crocus tommasinianus) as mildly toxic to cats. Crocus tommasinianus is a spring crocus and mildly toxic if ingested by cats or dogs, potentially causing mild vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea. It is critically different from the autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale), which is severely toxic and potentially fatal. If a pet ingests this spring crocus, contact a veterinarian. Not listed individually by the ASPCA, but spring crocus species (Crocus sp.) are categorised as mildly toxic.
How serious is it if my cat ate tommies crocus?
Tommies Crocus is mildly toxic, so most cats get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your cat ate a lot or symptoms persist.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Crocus tommasinianus is a spring crocus and mildly toxic if ingested by cats or dogs, potentially causing mild vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea. It is critically different from the autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale), which is severely toxic and potentially fatal. If a pet ingests this spring crocus, contact a veterinarian. Not listed individually by the ASPCA, but spring crocus species (Crocus sp.) are categorised as mildly toxic. 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 tommies crocus well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is tommies crocus toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Tommies Crocus and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide