Is Bokhara Iris toxic to cats?

Yes — bokhara iris is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The entire Iris genus is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The rhizome and bulb contain irisin (also called irisin or irisine) along with terpenoids and quinones. Ingestion causes salivation, vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhoea; larger quantities may cause central nervous system depression. The bulb and rhizome are the most toxic parts.

The entire Iris genus is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. The rhizome and bulb contain irisin (also called irisin or irisine) along with terpenoids and quinones. Ingestion causes salivation, vomiting, drooling, lethargy, and diarrhoea; larger quantities may cause central nervous system depression. The bulb and rhizome are the most toxic parts. 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 bokhara iris.

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.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Bokhara Iris is toxic to dogs as well. See the full bokhara iris pet-safety guide for both species.

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.