Is Ivy-Leaved Cyclamen toxic to cats?

Yes — ivy-leaved cyclamen is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Cyclamen species as toxic to dogs and cats. Terpenoid saponins (cyclamins) are present throughout the plant, with the highest concentration in the tuber. Symptoms of ingestion include profuse salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in cases of large tuber ingestion, cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and death. This species is AGM-awarded and widely planted in UK gardens, making accidental pet exposure a real risk — seek immediate veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.

ASPCA lists Cyclamen species as toxic to dogs and cats. Terpenoid saponins (cyclamins) are present throughout the plant, with the highest concentration in the tuber. Symptoms of ingestion include profuse salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in cases of large tuber ingestion, cardiac arrhythmias, seizures, and death. This species is AGM-awarded and widely planted in UK gardens, making accidental pet exposure a real risk — seek immediate veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected. 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 ivy-leaved cyclamen.

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: Ivy-Leaved Cyclamen is toxic to dogs as well. See the full ivy-leaved cyclamen 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.