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Is Iris virginica toxic to cats?

Iris virginica

Toxic to cats

Yes — iris virginica 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. Iris (ASPCA-listed as 'Iris'/'Flag') is toxic to cats and dogs. The pentacyclic terpenoids zeorin, missourin and missouriensin, most concentrated in the rhizomes, cause salivation, drooling, vomiting, lethargy and diarrhoea if ingested by pets.

What to do if your cat ate iris virginica

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

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

Is iris virginica toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is iris virginica toxic to cats?

Yes — iris virginica is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Iris (ASPCA-listed as 'Iris'/'Flag') is toxic to cats and dogs. The pentacyclic terpenoids zeorin, missourin and missouriensin, most concentrated in the rhizomes, cause salivation, drooling, vomiting, lethargy and diarrhoea if ingested by pets.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats iris virginica?

Iris (ASPCA-listed as 'Iris'/'Flag') is toxic to cats and dogs. The pentacyclic terpenoids zeorin, missourin and missouriensin, most concentrated in the rhizomes, cause salivation, drooling, vomiting, lethargy and diarrhoea if ingested by pets. 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 iris virginica.

What should I do if my cat ate iris virginica?

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 iris virginica toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to iris virginica?

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 iris virginica pet-safety