Is Red Spider Lily toxic to cats?

Yes — red spider lily is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA does not list Lycoris radiata under its own name, but it lists the genus's close amaryllis-family relatives (such as Amaryllis, daffodil/Narcissus and Clivia) as toxic because of the alkaloid lycorine — the same compound that fills every part of Lycoris radiata, with the highest concentration in the bulb. Pet Poison Helpline and NC State Extension confirm Lycoris is poisonous. Ingestion causes drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain; large doses can lead to tremors or convulsions. Note: the ASPCA's separate "Spider Lily" listing refers to a different genus (Hymenocallis), so do not assume it covers this plant. If a pet or child ingests any part, contact your vet, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline right away.

Toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA does not list Lycoris radiata under its own name, but it lists the genus's close amaryllis-family relatives (such as Amaryllis, daffodil/Narcissus and Clivia) as toxic because of the alkaloid lycorine — the same compound that fills every part of Lycoris radiata, with the highest concentration in the bulb. Pet Poison Helpline and NC State Extension confirm Lycoris is poisonous. Ingestion causes drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain; large doses can lead to tremors or convulsions. Note: the ASPCA's separate "Spider Lily" listing refers to a different genus (Hymenocallis), so do not assume it covers this plant. If a pet or child ingests any part, contact your vet, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline right away. 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 red spider lily.

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: Red Spider Lily is toxic to dogs as well. See the full red spider lily 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.