Are Peonies Toxic to Cats? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, peonies are mildly toxic to cats

Peonies contain paeonol, which is most concentrated in the bark and roots. Eating a few petals usually causes mild stomach upset at most.

Peonies and cats: key facts

Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Paeonia officinalis
Toxic compound	Paeonol
Toxic parts	All parts, most concentrated in the bark and roots
Signs usually start	Usually within a few hours
Plant type	Flower

Symptoms of peonies poisoning in cats

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Depression

Why peonies are toxic to cats

Paeonol is concentrated in the bark and roots and irritates the stomach and intestines.

What to do if your cat ate peonies

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, depression. 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 for stomach upset. Large amounts of root or bark should be discussed with your vet.

How to keep your cat away from peonies

Place peonies 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 peonies

If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for cats.

Peonies and cats: FAQ

Are peonies poisonous to cats?

Peonies are mildly toxic to cats. Paeonol can cause vomiting and diarrhea, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of peonies is toxic to cats?

All parts, most concentrated in the bark and roots.

Can cats die from eating peonies?

It is very unlikely. Peonies 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 peonies will my cat show symptoms?

Usually within a few hours.

Are peonies toxic to dogs too?

Yes, peonies are mildly toxic to dogs.

Other plants toxic to cats

Sources

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.

Are Peonies Toxic to Cats?