Is Cyclamen toxic to cats and dogs?
Quick answer
Toxic to cats and dogs. Cyclamen contains saponins (concentrated in tubers).
Not sure it’s this plant?Check yours with a photo, freeCyclamen Cyclamen persicum
Most cyclamen exposures cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhea. Heart rhythm problems and seizures are uncommon and follow large amounts of the tuber, so a pet that dug up or chewed the tuber needs a vet.
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of a Cyclamen, act quickly. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
- Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
- Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
- When you call, have the plant’s name or a photo ready. Tell the vet roughly how much your pet ate and when.
Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.
Symptoms
In cats and dogs, eating it can cause:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Drooling
- Irregular heart rhythm (after eating a lot of tuber)
- Seizures (after eating a lot of tuber)
This plant can cause serious poisoning. Contact a vet promptly, even if your pet seems well.
Non-toxic plants for similar light
FuchsiaFuchsia magellanicaBright, indirect lightPet-safe
Zebra haworthiaHaworthia attenuataBright, indirect lightPet-safe
Spider plantChlorophytum comosumBright, indirect lightPet-safe
Pinstripe calatheaCalathea ornataBright, indirect lightPet-safeSee all pet-safe alternatives →
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice. ASPCA lists the whole Cyclamen genus, so this applies to every Cyclamen species, including this one. Sources: Pet Poison Helpline: Cyclamen.
All Cyclamen guides
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ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: