Cat owners warned over common springtime flowers that can be fatal for your pet (2025)

Pet owners are being urged to be wary of some flowers around your home this season

Householders with pets are being warned of potential dangers hidden in flowers this spring. At this time of the year, daffodils and tulips are widely available to buy from shops and are popular choices to brighten up our homes.

While they may look lovely, experts at Pet insurance specialist Healthy Pets are making owners aware that the seemingly innocent blooms are amongst the flowers which can be toxic and potentially deadly to our feline friends. And unlike dogs where you can put flowers out of reach, cats have the ability to climb meaning they are at risk of coming into contact with bouquets.

The flowers that are toxic for cats are:

• Daffodils - This bright, cheerful daffodil is a spring staple, but they contain a poisonous substance called lycorine, which can cause serious issues for cats if a large amount is ingested.

• Lilies - All types of lilies are highly toxic to cats. All parts of the lily plant are dangerous to cats if ingested, and even coming into contact with small amounts can result in severe poisoning.

• Tulips – Due to compounds named tulipanin A and B, tulips are dangerous for cats. The bulbs are particularly dangerous due to a higher concentration of these toxins.
• Bluebells – another flower synonymous with the season, bluebells contain glycosides and alkaloids. Cats lack the enzymes needed to break down these compounds, resulting in gastrointestinal distress.
• Peonies – a springtime favourite, peonies contain paeonol, a toxin known to be harmful to cats.

What are the signs of poisoning in cats?

Signs of poisoning can include (but are not limited to):

• Drooling
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Depression.

In more severe cases, symptoms include:

• Breathing difficulties
• Increase in heart rate
• Tremors or seizures
• Shock or collapse.

If you are worried your cat has been poisoned, Ross Hallifax from Healthy Pets has this advice. He said: “If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic substance, try and remain calm and seek help from your vet.

"It can also be useful to identify the flower or plant your cat has ingested, as this will help your veterinarian identify the toxins and provide a more effective treatment,” states a Healthy Pets spokesperson.

“Follow the vet’s instructions carefully and don’t do anything outside of their advice.”

When springtime blooms, it can be difficult to keep your cat out of harm’s way – especially if they roam outdoors. But there are ways to help prevent poisonings.

Educate yourself

Learn about toxic plants and remove any dangerous flowers from areas accessible to your cat.

Keep flowers in high, hard-to-reach places

Although cats can climb, try to keep them in areas where your cat cannot access them.

Create a pet-friendly garden

This involves planting it with safe, non-toxic plants like catnip, sunflowers, and marigolds.

Monitor your cat closely

If you can, keep an eye on them when outside and discourage them from chewing on plants.

Ross added: “As we celebrate the arrival of spring, it’s important for cat owners to remember that many of the season’s plants and flowers can pose serious risks to our beloved pets.

"By recognising which flowers could pose a risk, the signs of poisoning, and what to do in case the worst were to happen, cat owners can ensure their furry friends remain safe and healthy throughout this springtime and beyond.”