Pet emergency
My dog ate Autumn Crocus Speciosus — what to do
Step by step
- Take autumn crocus speciosus 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 autumn crocus speciosus — FAQ
Is autumn crocus speciosus poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Autumn Crocus Speciosus (Crocus speciosus) as mildly toxic to dogs. Crocus speciosus (true autumn crocus) is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but the Crocus genus is classified as mildly toxic to dogs and cats, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset if corms or flowers are ingested. It is distinct from Colchicum autumnale (meadow saffron), which is highly toxic — confirm identification before any concern.
How serious is it if my dog ate autumn crocus speciosus?
Autumn Crocus Speciosus is mildly toxic, so most dogs 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 dog 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 speciosus (true autumn crocus) is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but the Crocus genus is classified as mildly toxic to dogs and cats, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset if corms or flowers are ingested. It is distinct from Colchicum autumnale (meadow saffron), which is highly toxic — confirm identification before any concern. 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 autumn crocus speciosus well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is autumn crocus speciosus toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Autumn Crocus Speciosus and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide