Is Foxglove Toxic to Cats and Dogs? (Digitalis purpurea)
Foxglove, Digitalis purpurea: listed as toxic to cats and dogs (cardiac glycosides). Signs, what to do, and how to confirm the species.
At a glance
- Scientific name: Digitalis purpurea
- Also called:
- Toxic to cats: Yes
- Toxic to dogs: Yes
- Toxic principle: Cardiac glycosides
- Signs reported: Cardiac arrhythmias, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, cardiac failure, death.
Is Foxglove toxic to cats and dogs?
ASPCA Animal Poison Control lists Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is Cardiac glycosides. Signs reported: Cardiac arrhythmias, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, cardiac failure, death..
How serious it can be
The clinical signs in the original source explicitly list "cardiac arrhythmias," "cardiac failure," and "death." As a cardiac glycoside, this is one of the plants in this table with the most clearly documented cardiotoxic effects.
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 Foxglove safe for cats?
No. It is listed as toxic to cats; reported signs include cardiac arrhythmias.
Is Foxglove 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.
Related
Sources
Updated 2026-09-11.