Yes, irises are mildly toxic to cats
Irises contain pentacyclic terpenoids, concentrated in the rhizomes and bulbs. Dogs that dig them up are more likely to be affected than pets that nibble the flowers.
Irises and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Iris spp. |
| Also called | flag, snake lily, water flag |
| Toxic compound | Pentacyclic terpenoids (irisin) |
| Toxic parts | All parts; the rhizomes and bulbs are the most toxic |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Flower |
Symptoms of irises poisoning in cats
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
Why irises are toxic to cats
These compounds are concentrated in the rhizomes and bulbs and irritate the gut, causing drooling, vomiting and diarrhea.
What to do if your cat ate irises
- 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 drooling, vomiting, diarrhea. 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. Dogs that ate a lot of rhizome should be seen by a vet.
How to keep your cat away from irises
- Place irises 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 irises
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.
Irises and cats: FAQ
Are irises poisonous to cats?
Irises are mildly toxic to cats. Pentacyclic terpenoids (irisin) can cause drooling and vomiting, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of irises is toxic to cats?
All parts; the rhizomes and bulbs are the most toxic.
Can cats die from eating irises?
It is very unlikely. Irises 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 irises will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Are irises toxic to dogs too?
Yes, irises are mildly toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- CarnationsMildly toxic
- DaisiesMildly toxic
- ChrysanthemumsMildly toxic
- Baby's BreathMildly 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.