Is Ranunculus asiaticus toxic to cats?

Yes — ranunculus asiaticus is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Ranunculus (buttercup) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is ranunculin, converted to the irritant protoanemonin when tissue is chewed; the flowers contain the highest amount. Signs include hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, oral ulcers and an unsteady gait. Keep corms and cut stems away from pets.

ASPCA lists Ranunculus (buttercup) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is ranunculin, converted to the irritant protoanemonin when tissue is chewed; the flowers contain the highest amount. Signs include hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhoea, oral ulcers and an unsteady gait. Keep corms and cut stems away from 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 ranunculus asiaticus.

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: Ranunculus asiaticus is toxic to dogs as well. See the full ranunculus asiaticus 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.