Yes, daffodils are toxic to cats
Daffodils contain lycorine and other alkaloids that trigger vomiting, plus calcium oxalate crystals in the bulbs. Flowers and leaves usually cause stomach upset, while bulbs can cause serious heart and blood-pressure effects.
Daffodils and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Toxic |
| Scientific name | Narcissus spp. |
| Also called | narcissus, jonquil, paper white |
| Toxic compound | Lycorine and other Amaryllidaceae alkaloids |
| Toxic parts | All parts; bulbs are the most toxic |
| Signs usually start | Usually within 1-2 hours |
| Plant type | Flower |
Symptoms of daffodils poisoning in cats
- Vomiting and drooling
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- With bulbs or large amounts: low blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors or seizures
Why daffodils are 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 daffodils
- 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 and drooling, diarrhea, abdominal pain. 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 daffodils
- Place daffodils 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 daffodils
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.
Daffodils and cats: FAQ
Are daffodils poisonous to cats?
Daffodils are toxic to cats. Vomiting and drooling and Diarrhea are common, and larger amounts can cause more serious illness. Call your vet if your cat ate any.
What part of daffodils is toxic to cats?
All parts; bulbs are the most toxic.
Can cats die from eating daffodils?
Deaths are uncommon, but large amounts can cause serious illness. Call your vet promptly.
How long after eating daffodils will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within 1-2 hours.
Are daffodils toxic to dogs too?
Yes, daffodils are toxic to dogs.
Is daffodil vase water toxic?
It can be. Daffodil stems release compounds into the water, so keep vases where pets cannot drink from them.
Other plants toxic to cats
- MistletoeToxic
- AmaryllisToxic
- 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.