Is Delphinium grandiflorum 'Blue Butterfly' toxic to cats?

Yes — delphinium grandiflorum 'blue butterfly' is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs and horses (Delphinium species). The toxic principle is diterpene alkaloids; signs include salivation, colic, constipation, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness and convulsions, with possible cardiac failure or fatal respiratory paralysis in large ingestions. Seeds and young growth are most potent.

ASPCA-listed as toxic to cats, dogs and horses (Delphinium species). The toxic principle is diterpene alkaloids; signs include salivation, colic, constipation, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness and convulsions, with possible cardiac failure or fatal respiratory paralysis in large ingestions. Seeds and young growth are most potent. 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 delphinium grandiflorum 'blue butterfly'.

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: Delphinium grandiflorum 'Blue Butterfly' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full delphinium grandiflorum 'blue butterfly' 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.