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Is Alpine Squill toxic to cats?

Scilla bifolia

Toxic to cats

Yes — alpine squill is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. All Scilla species contain cardiac glycosides (scilliroside and related bufadienolide compounds). Ingestion by cats or dogs can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, irregular heart rhythm, and lethargy. The bulb contains the highest concentration. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.

What to do if your cat ate alpine squill

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move alpine squill out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of alpine squill to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten alpine squill, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is alpine squill toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is alpine squill toxic to cats?

Yes — alpine squill is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. All Scilla species contain cardiac glycosides (scilliroside and related bufadienolide compounds). Ingestion by cats or dogs can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, irregular heart rhythm, and lethargy. The bulb contains the highest concentration. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats alpine squill?

All Scilla species contain cardiac glycosides (scilliroside and related bufadienolide compounds). Ingestion by cats or dogs can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, irregular heart rhythm, and lethargy. The bulb contains the highest concentration. Contact a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to alpine squill.

What should I do if my cat ate alpine squill?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

Is alpine squill toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Alpine Squill is toxic to dogs as well. See the full alpine squill pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to alpine squill?

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Full alpine squill pet-safety