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Is Iris versicolor toxic to dogs?

Iris versicolor

Toxic to dogs

Yes — iris versicolor is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Iris (ASPCA-listed under 'Iris' and 'Flag') is toxic to cats and dogs. Pentacyclic terpenoids (zeorin, missourin, missouriensin), concentrated in the rhizomes, cause salivation, drooling, vomiting, lethargy and diarrhoea on ingestion. Skin contact with sap can also irritate.

What to do if your dog ate iris versicolor

  1. Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and move iris versicolor out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of iris versicolor to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your dog has eaten iris versicolor, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is iris versicolor toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is iris versicolor toxic to dogs?

Yes — iris versicolor is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Iris (ASPCA-listed under 'Iris' and 'Flag') is toxic to cats and dogs. Pentacyclic terpenoids (zeorin, missourin, missouriensin), concentrated in the rhizomes, cause salivation, drooling, vomiting, lethargy and diarrhoea on ingestion. Skin contact with sap can also irritate.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats iris versicolor?

Iris (ASPCA-listed under 'Iris' and 'Flag') is toxic to cats and dogs. Pentacyclic terpenoids (zeorin, missourin, missouriensin), concentrated in the rhizomes, cause salivation, drooling, vomiting, lethargy and diarrhoea on ingestion. Skin contact with sap can also irritate. 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 dog has had access to iris versicolor.

What should I do if my dog ate iris versicolor?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your dog'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.

Is iris versicolor toxic to cats too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Iris versicolor is toxic to cats as well. See the full iris versicolor pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a dog-safe alternative to iris versicolor?

For a similar look without the risk, see the best dogs-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Full iris versicolor pet-safety