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
Daffodils (narcissus) contain lycorine and other alkaloids that cause vomiting, and crystals that irritate tissues. The bulb is the most toxic part, but the flowers and leaves can also cause illness.
Large amounts, particularly of the bulbs, can cause more serious signs such as low blood pressure, heart rhythm changes and tremors.
How to recognize it
Yellow or white flowers with a trumpet-shaped center surrounded by six petals, on straight stems with narrow, flat leaves. They grow from brown, papery bulbs and are common in spring gardens and cut-flower bunches.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and drooling
- Diarrhea and abdominal pain
- Low blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm or tremors after large amounts
What to do
- Contact your veterinarian if your pet eats any part of a daffodil, especially a bulb.
- Do not let pets drink water from vases holding daffodils.
- Store bulbs safely and supervise dogs in spring gardens.
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.