The paperwhite plant (Narcissus papyraceus), also known as narcissus or daffodil, contains toxins that can be very harmful if ingested by cats. While paperwhites are not a common allergen for felines, they are considered highly toxic.
These popular flowering houseplants and garden ornamentals contain lycorine and other alkaloids concentrated in the bulbs that can cause serious gastrointestinal distress and other dangerous symptoms in cats.
Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.
Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.
Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.
Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.
All parts of these plants are extremely poisonous to cats and can quickly lead to death, even with immediate veterinary care.
** Please note: Please note that toxicity level can vary based on the amount ingested and the specific cat. It's always best to keep these plants completely inaccessible to cats and seek immediate veterinary care or call the poison hotline if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant.
If your cat nibbles on any part of a paperwhite plant, especially the bulb, they may start to exhibit these symptoms of poisoning:
Seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your cat has eaten any part of a paperwhite. The sooner treatment begins, the better the prognosis.
Your vet will start with a physical exam to assess your cat’s symptoms. Be sure to bring a sample of the plant to aid in diagnosis. The vet may then:
A: Yes, the Paper White plant (a type of Narcissus) is harmful to cats. It contains toxic alkaloids that can cause severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain if ingested.
A: Symptoms of Paper White poisoning in cats include drooling, vomiting, and lethargy. If your cat exhibits these signs after exposure, immediate veterinary care is essential.
A: The Paper White plant is highly toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. Ingestion can lead to serious health issues, including convulsions and heart abnormalities, if not treated promptly.
A: Cats can recover from Paper White plant poisoning with timely veterinary care. The severity of the poisoning will affect recovery time, making early intervention crucial.
A: It is not safe to keep a Paper White plant in a home with cats due to its toxic properties. Safer alternatives like basil or bamboo are better options for homes with pets.
A: If your cat ingests the Paper White plant, seek veterinary attention immediately. Quick action can prevent serious health issues and improve recovery outcomes.
Paperwhites are perennial flowering bulbs native to the Mediterranean region. They belong to the Amaryllis family and are close relatives of other narcissus species like daffodils. Paperwhites are prized for their clusters of fragrant white flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring.
The common name “paperwhite” refers to the delicate, tissue-paper-like petals. Paperwhites have been cultivated since the 1700s and have naturalized in parts of North America. They are popular for forcing indoors to provide color during the winter months.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
