Garden
Is Autumn crocus toxic to cats and dogs?
Colchicum autumnale · also called Meadow saffron
Cats
Highly toxicDogs
Highly toxicAutumn crocus contains colchicine, which can damage the gut, kidneys, liver and bone marrow. Signs may be delayed for days.
By Maya Hart
If your pet chewed it
- This is an emergency.
- Go to your vet now, even if your pet seems fine.
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline, tell them the plant name (a photo helps) and how much was chewed.
- Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and remove any plant material from the fur.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting (sometimes bloody)
- Diarrhoea
- Shock
- Organ damage days later
What is harmful
- Parts
- Every part, especially bulbs
- Substance
- Colchicine
Pet-safe alternatives
- Spring crocus (mild only)
- Asters
Questions owners ask
Is Autumn crocus toxic to cats?
Yes — highly toxic to cats. Harmful parts: every part, especially bulbs.
Is Autumn crocus toxic to dogs?
Yes — highly toxic to dogs. Harmful parts: every part, especially bulbs.
What happens if a pet eats autumn crocus?
vomiting (sometimes bloody), diarrhoea, shock, organ damage days later.
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
This is an emergency. Go to your vet now, even if your pet seems fine. Call your vet or a pet poison helpline, tell them the plant name (a photo helps) and how much was chewed. Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and remove any plant material from the fur.
What are pet-safe alternatives to autumn crocus?
Spring crocus (mild only), Asters.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
