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 Larkspur safe for cats?
Delphinium species
Larkspur is a popular garden perennial known for its tall, showy spikes of flowers. It contains potent alkaloids that make it highly toxic to both cats and dogs if ingested.
DelphiniumDelphinium speciesLarkspur
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Upright, herbaceous perennial
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats should not chew larkspur — its alkaloids act on the neuromuscular system and the gut. Pet Poison Helpline describes cat-specific signs as severe agitation, aggression, vomiting, drooling, tremors and respiratory or cardiovascular depression — this isn't a wait-and-see plant.
What to watch for
Most-common: drooling and vomiting. Less common but more serious — and what makes larkspur dangerous — severe agitation or unusual aggression, diarrhea, tremors, weakness, and depressed breathing or heart function.
Time window
Onset and duration are not well documented for cats. ASPCA describes effects as ranging from increased salivation and tremors to recumbency and convulsions, indicating both rapid and severe presentations are possible.
When to call the vet
Call immediately — your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) — any time you suspect your cat has eaten larkspur. Don't wait for symptoms; the neuromuscular and cardiac risks make this an immediate-call plant.
First aid at home
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian as soon as possible. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian instructs you to.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
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
Neuromuscular paralysis, severe digestive upset, drooling, and potential cardiac irregularities.
Escalation note
Ingestion is considered dangerous. If you suspect your cat has consumed any part of this plant, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately.
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
Larkspur is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of diterpene alkaloids.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Delphinium species are highly toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
Same cat verdict
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