Is Daffodil Toxic to Cats and Dogs? (Narcissus spp.)

Daffodil, Narcissus spp.: listed as toxic to cats and dogs (lycorine and other alkaloids). Signs, what to do, and how to confirm the species.

This page reports what veterinary poison-control references say about each plant. It is not a promise that a plant is harmless, and it is not treatment advice. If a pet may have eaten a plant, contact a veterinarian, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661.

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At a glance

Scientific name: Narcissus spp.
Also called: Narcissus, Jonquil, Paper White
Toxic to cats: Yes
Toxic to dogs: Yes
Toxic principle: Lycorine and other alkaloids
Signs reported: Vomiting, salvation, diarrhea; large ingestions cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors and cardiac arrhythmias. Bulbs are the most poisonous part.

Is Daffodil toxic to cats and dogs?

ASPCA Animal Poison Control lists Daffodil (Narcissus spp.) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is Lycorine and other alkaloids. Signs reported: Vomiting, salvation, diarrhea; large ingestions cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors and cardiac arrhythmias. Bulbs are the most poisonous part..

How serious it can be

Ingesting a large amount can cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias.

What to do if your pet ate it

If a pet may have eaten a plant, contact a veterinarian, ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. Note what was eaten, how much and when, and bring a photo or a piece of the plant. Do not induce vomiting or give home remedies unless a professional tells you to.

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Confirm it is really this plant

Toxicity lists are by species, and many houseplants look alike. Photograph the whole plant, a leaf close-up and any flower in even light; the app reads the species first, then you can check it here. If the species is uncertain, act as if it were toxic.

FAQ

Is Daffodil safe for cats?

No. It is listed as toxic to cats; reported signs include vomiting.

Is Daffodil safe for dogs?

No. It is listed as toxic to dogs.

My pet only chewed a leaf. Should I still call?

Yes. Amount, size of the animal and the part eaten all matter, and the hotlines are staffed to judge that. Calling early is cheaper than waiting for signs.

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