Plant safety for cats
Is amaryllis toxic to cats?
ModerateListed toxic to cats by ASPCA
Yes — amaryllis is toxic to cats: lycorine in the plant causes vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling and belly pain, and sometimes tremors. It is called a 'lily' but doesn't cause lily kidney failure.
Why moderate: Lycorine: vomiting and, sometimes, tremors. Called a 'lily', but it isn't one.
- Name
- Amaryllisalso Belladonna lily
- Botanical name
- Amaryllis species · Amaryllidaceae
Toxic parts
Treat every part as toxic — ASPCA lists the plant without naming a safer part.
What's in it
Lycorine and related alkaloids.
How to recognise it
- Large trumpet flowers on a tall, hollow, leafless stalk
- Strap-like leaves growing from a big bulb
Look-alikes and name traps
Not a true lily — compare glory lily and calla lily.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Drooling
- Belly pain, not eating
- Tremors
What to do
Call your vet today. Tremors mean go now.
- Take the plant away, note how much is missing and take a photo of it.
- Don't make your cat vomit at home unless a vet tells you to.
- No milk, oil, salt water or home remedies.
Where Indian cats meet it
Sold as a flowering bulb and a cut flower.
Sources
Facts last checked
General information for cat parents, not a diagnosis or a treatment plan. The facts come from ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, International Cat Care, the Merck Veterinary Manual and the other sources listed on every page — and we say so when the evidence comes from dogs or people. If your cat may have eaten something harmful, call your vet.
