Plant safety for cats
Is cyclamen toxic to cats?
ModerateListed toxic to cats by ASPCA
Yes — cyclamen is toxic to cats. Leaves and flowers cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea; the round tuber is far worse — a large amount can cause heart-rhythm problems and seizures.
Why moderate: Leaves upset the stomach; a dug-up tuber can affect the heart and cause seizures.
- Name
- Cyclamenalso Sowbread
- Botanical name
- Cyclamen persicum · Primulaceae
Toxic parts
All parts; the tuber (the bulb-like root) is the most dangerous.
What's in it
Terpenoid saponins.
How to recognise it
- Heart-shaped, silver-marbled leaves
- Upswept, swept-back petals in pink, red or white
- A round tuber at the soil surface
Symptoms to watch for
- Drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea
- After eating the tuber: abnormal heart rhythm, seizures
What to do
Call your vet today. If your cat dug up or chewed the tuber, go to a vet 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
Uncommon in Indian homes — mostly a winter pot plant.
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.
