Cats
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
cat safety reference
Is Daisy (Chrysanthemum) safe for cats?
Chrysanthemum species
Chrysanthemums are popular flowering plants known for their vibrant blooms, but they contain natural compounds that can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets. It is recommended to keep these plants out of reach of curious animals.
ChrysanthemumChrysanthemum speciesDaisyMum
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Mounded or upright
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats are markedly more sensitive than dogs to chrysanthemums — mums are the natural source of pyrethrins, an insecticide cats metabolize poorly. ASPCA lists the plant as toxic, and on top of stomach upset cats can show neurologic signs that dogs usually don't.
What to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and incoordination are typical. With heavier exposure cats may show twitching, tremors, dilated pupils, hyperexcitability, or seizures — the pyrethrin profile that makes cats especially vulnerable. Skin contact can cause a transient rash.
Time window
Signs can appear within minutes to a few hours of exposure but may take up to 72 hours to develop fully.
When to call the vet
Call immediately if your cat shows tremors, seizures, dilated pupils, or trouble walking — these are emergencies. For drooling or mild vomiting alone, contact your veterinarian or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) the same day.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline (no first-aid guidance).
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation (dermatitis).
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and skin inflammation. Please contact your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of this plant.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Chrysanthemum contains pyrethrins, sesquiterpene lactones, and other potential irritants that can cause clinical signs in pets.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Chrysanthemum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, widely cultivated for ornamental purposes.
Questions about Daisy (Chrysanthemum)
Are daisies (chrysanthemums) toxic to cats?
Yes, chrysanthemums are toxic to cats. They contain compounds — including pyrethrins — that can cause gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation if ingested or contacted.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating a chrysanthemum?
Typical signs include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and incoordination. With heavier exposure, cats may develop twitching, tremors, dilated pupils, hyperexcitability, or seizures — cats are especially vulnerable to the pyrethrin profile in chrysanthemums. Skin contact can also cause a transient rash.
What should I do if my cat ate part of a daisy or chrysanthemum?
Remove any remaining plant material from your cat's reach, then call your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) the same day — even for mild drooling or vomiting. If your cat shows tremors, seizures, dilated pupils, or trouble walking, treat it as an emergency and seek veterinary care immediately.
How long after eating a chrysanthemum will a cat show symptoms?
Signs can appear within minutes to a few hours of exposure, but may take up to 72 hours to develop fully, so monitor your cat closely for several days even if they seem fine at first.
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