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Is Belladonna larkspur toxic to cats?

Delphinium x belladonna

Toxic to cats

Yes — belladonna larkspur 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 parts of the Belladonna hybrid group contain diterpene alkaloids and are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses per the ASPCA (genus Delphinium is listed toxic). Sap can cause skin and eye irritation; always wear gloves when handling. Ingestion may cause salivation, muscle weakness, and respiratory failure in severe cases.

What to do if your cat ate belladonna larkspur

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move belladonna larkspur 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 belladonna larkspur to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is belladonna larkspur toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is belladonna larkspur toxic to cats?

Yes — belladonna larkspur is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. All parts of the Belladonna hybrid group contain diterpene alkaloids and are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses per the ASPCA (genus Delphinium is listed toxic). Sap can cause skin and eye irritation; always wear gloves when handling. Ingestion may cause salivation, muscle weakness, and respiratory failure in severe cases.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats belladonna larkspur?

All parts of the Belladonna hybrid group contain diterpene alkaloids and are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses per the ASPCA (genus Delphinium is listed toxic). Sap can cause skin and eye irritation; always wear gloves when handling. Ingestion may cause salivation, muscle weakness, and respiratory failure in severe cases. 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 belladonna larkspur.

What should I do if my cat ate belladonna larkspur?

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 belladonna larkspur toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Belladonna larkspur is toxic to dogs as well. See the full belladonna larkspur pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to belladonna larkspur?

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 belladonna larkspur pet-safety