Yes, carnations are mildly toxic to cats
Carnations are mildly toxic to cats and dogs. The exact irritant is unknown, but signs are usually mild and limited to the stomach and skin.
Carnations and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Dianthus caryophyllus |
| Also called | pinks, sweet William, clove pink |
| Toxic compound | Unidentified irritant compounds |
| Toxic parts | All parts |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Flower |
Symptoms of carnations poisoning in cats
- Mild vomiting and diarrhea
- Drooling
- Mild skin irritation (dermatitis)
Why carnations are toxic to cats
The specific toxin has not been well characterized, but the plant irritates the gut and sometimes the skin.
What to do if your cat ate carnations
- 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 mild vomiting and diarrhea, drooling, mild skin irritation. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
Treatment and outlook
Supportive care is usually enough. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day.
How to keep your cat away from carnations
- Place carnations 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 carnations
If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:
- RosesNon-toxic
- SunflowersNon-toxic
- Gerbera DaisiesNon-toxic
- PetuniasNon-toxic
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- Christmas CactusNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for cats.
Carnations and cats: FAQ
Are carnations poisonous to cats?
Carnations are mildly toxic to cats. Unidentified irritant compounds can cause mild vomiting and diarrhea and drooling, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of carnations is toxic to cats?
All parts.
Can cats die from eating carnations?
It is very unlikely. Carnations usually cause mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
How long after eating carnations will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Are carnations toxic to dogs too?
Yes, carnations are mildly toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- DaisiesMildly toxic
- ChrysanthemumsMildly toxic
- Baby's BreathMildly toxic
- HydrangeasMildly 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.