Daisy (Chrysanthemum) — no rights reserved, uploaded by 葉子
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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

Cats

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

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.

Catsconcern 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

Open source

Chrysanthemum contains pyrethrins, sesquiterpene lactones, and other potential irritants that can cause clinical signs in pets.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Chrysanthemum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, widely cultivated for ornamental purposes.

Cats & dogs pagedogs pageMy cat ate Daisy (Chrysanthemum)

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