If your pet has eaten a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away and bring a photo or piece of the plant. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).
Why
Autumn crocus (Colchicum) contains colchicine, which interferes with cell division. It can cause severe vomiting, bleeding in the gut, and damage to the kidneys, liver and bone marrow.
Signs may appear right away or be delayed for several days. The spring-flowering crocus (Crocus species) is a different plant that usually causes only mild stomach upset, but because the two can look alike, treat any crocus ingestion as potentially serious.
How to recognize it
Goblet-shaped pink to lilac flowers appear straight from the ground in autumn with no leaves; broad leaves follow in spring. It looks similar to the spring-flowering crocus, which is why careful identification matters.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting, possibly with blood
- Bloody diarrhea
- Lethargy and shock
- Signs of organ damage that can appear days later
What to do
- Go to a veterinarian immediately, even if your pet seems well.
- Identify the plant if you can; bring a photo or a piece of it.
- Avoid planting autumn crocus where pets roam.
Pet-safe alternatives
Looking for something similar without the risk? These plants are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Related plants
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List (dogs, cats).
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.