What should I do if my cat ate Dahlia?

Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) if vomiting continues past a few episodes, your cat refuses food for more than a few hours, or skin irritation becomes raw, swollen, or hives appear.

What should I do if my dog ate Dahlia?

Call your veterinarian or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) if vomiting persists past several episodes, your dog stops eating or drinking, or any skin irritation becomes raw or spreads.

Dahlia — (c) Roberto Rodriguez, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Roberto Rodriguez — Photo by (c) Roberto Rodriguez, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Roberto RodrigueziNaturalistCC BY

Photo by (c) Roberto Rodriguez, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Roberto RodrigueziNaturalistCC BY

Pet safety reference

Dahlia

Q: Is Dahlia safe for cats?

Dahlia is potentially toxic to cats. Symptoms are generally mild, but you should contact your veterinarian if your cat shows signs of persistent discomfort or digestive distress.

Q: Is Dahlia safe for dogs?

Dahlia is potentially toxic to dogs. While typically mild, ingestion of large quantities can lead to more significant irritation; consult your veterinarian if symptoms persist.

Dahlia species

Dahlias are popular tuberous perennials known for their diverse, showy blooms. While they are a staple in gardens, they contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal or dermatological irritation if ingested or handled by pets.

Check a list

DahliaDahlia speciesGarden Dahlia

Light: Full sun
Habit: Tuberous perennial
Care: Moderate

Safety status

Cats & Dogs

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.

Sources

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

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

Gastrointestinal upset including vomiting and diarrhea, or skin irritation upon contact.

Escalation note

Symptoms are generally mild, but you should contact your veterinarian if your cat shows signs of persistent discomfort or digestive distress.

Dogs — concern notes

Common signs

Mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea, and potential dermatitis if the skin is exposed to the plant sap.

Escalation note

While typically mild, ingestion of large quantities can lead to more significant irritation; consult your veterinarian if symptoms persist.

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

Dahlia is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs, causing gastrointestinal signs and dermatitis.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Provides comprehensive botanical information on the Dahlia genus, noting its status as a popular garden perennial.

cats safety page My cat ate Dahlia dogs safety page My dog ate Dahlia

Same safety verdict

Other plants with the same verdict

Black Calla

Arum palestinum

Arum palestinum is a tuberous perennial known for its striking, dark purple-black spathe. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause irritation upon contact with mucous membranes.

Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.

Lords-and-Ladies

Arum maculatum

Arum maculatum is a tuberous perennial plant known for its distinct hooded spathe and bright red berries. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate irritation upon contact with tissues.

Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.

Monstera

Monstera deliciosa

Monstera deliciosa is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, fenestrated leaves and vining growth habit. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.

Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.

Snake Plant

Dracaena trifasciata

Dracaena trifasciata is a popular, hardy houseplant known for its stiff, sword-like leaves with striking yellow margins. It is widely appreciated for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in various indoor conditions.

Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.