Plant safety for cats
Is chrysanthemum (गुलदाउदी) toxic to cats?
MildListed toxic to cats by ASPCA
Mildly — chrysanthemum (guldaudi) is toxic to cats but usually causes only vomiting, diarrhoea or drooling; occasionally a wobbly walk or skin irritation.
Why mild: Usually just a stomach upset; occasionally drooling or a wobbly walk.
- Name
- Chrysanthemumalso Guldaudi, Mums
- Hindi
- गुलदाउदी · guldaudi
- Botanical name
- Chrysanthemum × morifolium and other species · Asteraceae
- Other Indian names
- Bengaliচন্দ্রমল্লিকা (chondromollika)
Toxic parts
Treat every part as toxic — ASPCA lists the plant without naming a safer part.
What's in it
Sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins and other irritants.
How to recognise it
- Aromatic, lobed leaves with a grey-green underside
- Many-petalled flower heads in every colour — pompom, spider and button types
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting, diarrhoea
- Drooling
- Wobbliness (occasionally)
- Skin irritation
What to do
Usually settles on its own — but keep an eye on your cat.
- Take the plant away and note how much was chewed.
- Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea keeps going, your cat stops eating, or seems weak or wobbly.
- Don't make your cat vomit at home unless a vet tells you to.
Where Indian cats meet it
Winter pots, temple and wedding garlands, and chrysanthemum shows from November to January.
Cat-safe swap: Indoors: roses, mogra or ixora.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Chrysanthemum
- Pet Poison Helpline: Chrysanthemum
- Pet Poison Helpline: No lilies for kitties
- Hindi Wikipedia: गुलदाउदी (Hindi name)
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.
