Plants · Narcissus spp.
Is Daffodil Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Cats
Large ingestions can cause convulsions and heart rhythm problems (ASPCA).
Dogs
Large ingestions, especially of bulbs, can cause convulsions and heart rhythm problems (ASPCA).
Yes, daffodils are toxic to cats and dogs. They contain lycorine and other alkaloids that cause vomiting, drooling and diarrhea; large amounts can cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors and heart rhythm problems (ASPCA). The bulbs are the most poisonous part. Call your vet right away.
Written by VetExpenses Editorial TeamFact-checked against cited sources · Veterinary review pendingLast reviewed
Educational information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or ate something worrying, call your veterinarian or a pet poison line now. Emergency steps.
Daffodil: plant facts
| Scientific name | Narcissus spp. |
|---|---|
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Other names | Narcissus, Jonquil, Paper white |
| Toxic parts | Whole plant; bulbs are the most poisonous part |
| Toxic principle | Lycorine and other alkaloids |
| Where you'll find it | outdoor, cut flower |
Severity scale: “usually mild” means the ASPCA lists only mouth, stomach or skin irritation; “highly toxic” means it lists organ failure, heart effects, seizures or death.
Signs to watch for
Cats
- vomiting
- drooling
- diarrhea
- convulsions (large ingestions)
- low blood pressure
- tremors
- heart rhythm problems
Dogs
- vomiting
- drooling
- diarrhea
- convulsions (large ingestions)
- low blood pressure
- tremors
- heart rhythm problems
My pet ate daffodil. What do I do?
- Take any remaining plant away from your pet and note which plant (photo or label) and how much was chewed.
- Call your veterinarian or a pet poison line: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435, Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. A fee may apply.
- Don't make your pet vomit unless a veterinarian or poison control tells you to.
What it could cost
If your pet needs care after eating daffodil
We publish a price range only after it is checked against named sources — our poisoning treatment and emergency vet visit guide is in verification. A vet bill for this kind of visit is usually built from these line items:
- Exam or emergency consultation fee
- Tests: bloodwork, urine tests or imaging
- Treatment, such as decontamination or medication
- Hospital stay and monitoring, if needed
- Follow-up visits and recheck tests
Pet-safe alternatives
Related plants
Sources
- Daffodil — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Accessed November 8, 2026.
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