Is Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Gold Heart' toxic to cats?

Yes — lamprocapnos spectabilis 'gold heart' is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Bleeding heart (Dicentra/Lamprocapnos) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. All parts contain isoquinoline alkaloids (protopine, sanguinarine and related compounds). Ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors and staggering; large amounts may trigger seizures. Handling may cause mild skin irritation.

Bleeding heart (Dicentra/Lamprocapnos) is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. All parts contain isoquinoline alkaloids (protopine, sanguinarine and related compounds). Ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors and staggering; large amounts may trigger seizures. Handling may cause mild skin irritation. 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 lamprocapnos spectabilis 'gold heart'.

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: Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Gold Heart' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full lamprocapnos spectabilis 'gold heart' 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.