Yes, daisies are mildly toxic to cats
Classic white daisies belong to the chrysanthemum family and contain sesquiterpene lactones and pyrethrins, which can upset the stomach and irritate the skin. Gerbera daisies are an exception: they are non-toxic.
Daisies and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Chrysanthemum leucanthemum (ox-eye daisy) and related species |
| Also called | ox-eye daisy, Shasta daisy, marguerite |
| Toxic compound | Sesquiterpene lactones and pyrethrins |
| Toxic parts | All parts |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Flower |
Symptoms of daisies poisoning in cats
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Loss of coordination
- Skin irritation
Why daisies are toxic to cats
Plants in the chrysanthemum family contain sesquiterpene lactones, which irritate the gut and skin, and pyrethrins, natural insecticides that can cause drooling and incoordination.
What to do if your cat ate daisies
- 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, diarrhea, drooling. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
Treatment and outlook
Signs are usually mild. Supportive care with anti-nausea medicine and fluids is enough for most pets. Wash skin that has been in contact with the plant.
How to keep your cat away from daisies
- Place daisies 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 daisies
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.
Daisies and cats: FAQ
Are daisies poisonous to cats?
Daisies are mildly toxic to cats. Sesquiterpene lactones and pyrethrins can cause vomiting and diarrhea, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of daisies is toxic to cats?
All parts.
Can cats die from eating daisies?
It is very unlikely. Daisies 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 daisies will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Are daisies toxic to dogs too?
Yes, daisies are mildly toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- CarnationsMildly 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.