Is Paeonia lactiflora 'Bowl of Beauty' toxic to cats?

Yes — paeonia lactiflora 'bowl of beauty' is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Peony (Paeonia species) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is paeonol, present throughout the plant; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and depression.

ASPCA lists Peony (Paeonia species) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The toxic principle is paeonol, present throughout the plant; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and depression. 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 paeonia lactiflora 'bowl of beauty'.

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: Paeonia lactiflora 'Bowl of Beauty' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full paeonia lactiflora 'bowl of beauty' 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.