Yes, amaryllis is toxic to cats
Amaryllis is a popular holiday bulb that contains lycorine and other alkaloids. The bulb holds the highest concentration.
Amaryllis and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Toxic |
| Scientific name | Hippeastrum and Amaryllis spp. |
| Also called | belladonna lily, naked lady |
| Toxic compound | Lycorine and other Amaryllidaceae alkaloids |
| Toxic parts | All parts; the bulb is the most toxic |
| Signs usually start | Usually within 1-2 hours |
| Plant type | Holiday plant |
Symptoms of amaryllis poisoning in cats
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Tremors (with bulbs)
- Low blood pressure
Why amaryllis is toxic to cats
Lycorine triggers vomiting and diarrhea and can lower blood pressure. Bulbs also contain calcium oxalate crystals. Large amounts, especially of bulbs, can cause abnormal heart rhythms, tremors and seizures.
What to do if your cat ate amaryllis
- Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
- Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
- Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
- Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
- Watch for vomiting, drooling, diarrhea. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.
Treatment and outlook
A vet may induce vomiting if the pet has not already vomited, then give IV fluids, anti-nausea medicine and heart monitoring. Bulb ingestion should always be seen by a vet.
How to keep your cat away from amaryllis
- Place amaryllis on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
- Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
- Holiday decorations add extra risks: tinsel, ribbon, ornaments and light cords. Supervise cats around the tree and table.
Pet-safe alternatives to amaryllis
If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:
- Christmas CactusNon-toxic
- RosesNon-toxic
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- SunflowersNon-toxic
- Gerbera DaisiesNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
- BambooNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for cats.
Amaryllis and cats: FAQ
Is amaryllis poisonous to cats?
Amaryllis is toxic to cats. Vomiting and Drooling are common, and larger amounts can cause more serious illness. Call your vet if your cat ate any.
What part of amaryllis is toxic to cats?
All parts; the bulb is the most toxic.
Can cats die from eating amaryllis?
Deaths are uncommon, but large amounts can cause serious illness. Call your vet promptly.
How long after eating amaryllis will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within 1-2 hours.
Is amaryllis toxic to dogs too?
Yes, amaryllis is toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- DaffodilsToxic
- MistletoeToxic
- CyclamenToxic
- KalanchoeToxic
- LiliesHighly toxic
- AzaleasHighly toxic
- OleanderHighly toxic
- Sago PalmsHighly toxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Cats
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonous Plants
Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.