Pet emergency
My dog ate Byzantine Meadow Saffron — what to do
Step by step
- Take byzantine meadow saffron away and remove any plant material from your dog'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 dog ate byzantine meadow saffron — FAQ
Is byzantine meadow saffron poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Byzantine Meadow Saffron (Colchicum byzantinum) as toxic to dogs. The ASPCA lists Colchicum (Autumn Crocus) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Colchicum byzantinum, like all species in the genus, contains high concentrations of colchicine throughout every part of the plant; ingestion can cause multi-organ failure and is potentially fatal. Treat as extremely hazardous to pets and children.
How serious is it if my dog ate byzantine meadow saffron?
Byzantine Meadow Saffron is toxic to dogs 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. The ASPCA lists Colchicum (Autumn Crocus) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Colchicum byzantinum, like all species in the genus, contains high concentrations of colchicine throughout every part of the plant; ingestion can cause multi-organ failure and is potentially fatal. Treat as extremely hazardous to pets and children. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my dog 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 byzantine meadow saffron well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is byzantine meadow saffron toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Byzantine Meadow Saffron and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide