Yes, autumn crocus is highly toxic to dogs
Autumn crocus contains colchicine, which stops cells from dividing and can cause multi-organ failure. Signs may be delayed, and bone marrow effects can appear days later. Spring crocuses (Crocus spp.) are different and usually cause only mild stomach upset.
Autumn Crocus and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Highly toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | Highly toxic |
| Scientific name | Colchicum autumnale |
| Also called | meadow saffron |
| Toxic compound | Colchicine |
| Toxic parts | All parts, especially the bulb |
| Signs usually start | Hours to days; bone marrow effects can appear after 4-7 days |
| Plant type | Garden plant |
Symptoms of autumn crocus poisoning in dogs
- Vomiting, often bloody
- Diarrhea, often bloody
- Shock
- Kidney and liver damage
- Bone marrow suppression (days later)
- Death
Why autumn crocus is toxic to dogs
Colchicine stops cells from dividing. Tissues with fast-dividing cells, such as the gut lining and bone marrow, are hit first, causing bloody vomiting and diarrhea, shock, and later kidney, liver and bone marrow failure.
What to do if your dog ate autumn crocus
- Remove plant pieces from your dog's mouth and move dogs away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
- Call an emergency vet or animal poison control immediately, even if your dog seems normal: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Signs can be delayed while damage is happening.
- 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 dog vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm.
- Watch for vomiting, often bloody, diarrhea, often bloody, shock. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.
Treatment and outlook
This is an emergency even before signs appear. Vets decontaminate and give aggressive supportive care, and monitor blood counts and organ function for at least a week.
How to keep your dog away from autumn crocus
- Place autumn crocus on high shelves or in hanging planters out of reach of paws and tails, or in a room your dog cannot enter.
- Give your dog something better to chew: chew toys and puzzle feeders reduce boredom chewing.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
- In the garden, fence off beds, supervise dogs that dig, and store bulbs in a closed container before planting.
Pet-safe alternatives to autumn crocus
If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA:
- LilacsNon-toxic
- LiliesNon-toxic
- RosesNon-toxic
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- SunflowersNon-toxic
- Gerbera DaisiesNon-toxic
- Christmas CactusNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for dogs.
Autumn Crocus and dogs: FAQ
Is autumn crocus poisonous to dogs?
Autumn Crocus is highly toxic to dogs and can be fatal. If your dog ate any part of this plant, treat it as an emergency.
What part of autumn crocus is toxic to dogs?
All parts, especially the bulb.
Can dogs die from eating autumn crocus?
Yes. Autumn Crocus can be fatal to dogs, which is why any exposure needs emergency veterinary care.
How long after eating autumn crocus will my dog show symptoms?
Hours to days; bone marrow effects can appear after 4-7 days.
Is autumn crocus toxic to cats too?
Yes, autumn crocus is highly toxic to cats.
Other plants toxic to dogs
- AzaleasHighly toxic
- OleanderHighly toxic
- Sago PalmsHighly toxic
- FoxgloveHighly toxic
- Lily of the ValleyHighly toxic
- YewHighly toxic
- DaffodilsToxic
- MistletoeToxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Dogs
- 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 dog's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.