Yes, autumn crocus is highly toxic to cats
Autumn crocus contains colchicine, which stops cells from dividing and can cause multi-organ failure. Signs may be delayed, and bone marrow effects can appear days later. Spring crocuses (Crocus spp.) are different and usually cause only mild stomach upset.
Autumn Crocus and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Highly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Highly toxic |
| Scientific name | Colchicum autumnale |
| Also called | meadow saffron |
| Toxic compound | Colchicine |
| Toxic parts | All parts, especially the bulb |
| Signs usually start | Hours to days; bone marrow effects can appear after 4-7 days |
| Plant type | Garden plant |
Symptoms of autumn crocus poisoning in cats
- Vomiting, often bloody
- Diarrhea, often bloody
- Shock
- Kidney and liver damage
- Bone marrow suppression (days later)
- Death
Why autumn crocus is toxic to cats
Colchicine stops cells from dividing. Tissues with fast-dividing cells, such as the gut lining and bone marrow, are hit first, causing bloody vomiting and diarrhea, shock, and later kidney, liver and bone marrow failure.
What to do if your cat ate autumn crocus
- 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 an emergency vet or animal poison control immediately, even if your cat seems normal: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Signs can be delayed while damage is happening.
- 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, often bloody, diarrhea, often bloody, shock. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.
Treatment and outlook
This is an emergency even before signs appear. Vets decontaminate and give aggressive supportive care, and monitor blood counts and organ function for at least a week.
How to keep your cat away from autumn crocus
- Place autumn crocus 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.
- In the garden, fence off beds, supervise cats that dig, and store bulbs in a closed container before planting.
Pet-safe alternatives to autumn crocus
If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:
- LilacsNon-toxic
- RosesNon-toxic
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- SunflowersNon-toxic
- Gerbera DaisiesNon-toxic
- Christmas CactusNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for cats.
Autumn Crocus and cats: FAQ
Is autumn crocus poisonous to cats?
Autumn Crocus is highly toxic to cats and can be fatal. If your cat ate any part of this plant, treat it as an emergency.
What part of autumn crocus is toxic to cats?
All parts, especially the bulb.
Can cats die from eating autumn crocus?
Yes. Autumn Crocus can be fatal to cats, which is why any exposure needs emergency veterinary care.
How long after eating autumn crocus will my cat show symptoms?
Hours to days; bone marrow effects can appear after 4-7 days.
Is autumn crocus toxic to dogs too?
Yes, autumn crocus is highly toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- LiliesHighly toxic
- AzaleasHighly toxic
- OleanderHighly toxic
- Sago PalmsHighly toxic
- FoxgloveHighly toxic
- Lily of the ValleyHighly toxic
- YewHighly toxic
- DaffodilsToxic
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.