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Is Autumn Crocus toxic to cats?

Colchicum autumnale

Toxic to cats

Yes — autumn crocus 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. The ASPCA lists Colchicum autumnale (Autumn Crocus) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. All parts contain colchicine and other alkaloids that cause severe vomiting, gastrointestinal haemorrhage, kidney and liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and can be fatal. Extremely dangerous — keep entirely away from pets and children.

What to do if your cat ate autumn crocus

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

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

Is autumn crocus toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is autumn crocus toxic to cats?

Yes — autumn crocus is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists Colchicum autumnale (Autumn Crocus) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. All parts contain colchicine and other alkaloids that cause severe vomiting, gastrointestinal haemorrhage, kidney and liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and can be fatal. Extremely dangerous — keep entirely away from pets and children.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats autumn crocus?

The ASPCA lists Colchicum autumnale (Autumn Crocus) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. All parts contain colchicine and other alkaloids that cause severe vomiting, gastrointestinal haemorrhage, kidney and liver damage, bone marrow suppression, and can be fatal. Extremely dangerous — keep entirely away from pets and children. 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 autumn crocus.

What should I do if my cat ate autumn crocus?

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 autumn crocus toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Autumn Crocus is toxic to dogs as well. See the full autumn crocus pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to autumn crocus?

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 autumn crocus pet-safety