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 Jonquil safe for cats?
Narcissus jonquilla
The jonquil is a bulbous perennial known for its fragrant, clustered yellow flowers and grass-like foliage. It contains alkaloids that can cause significant gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
JonquilNarcissusNarcissus jonquillaRush-leaved daffodil
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Bulbous perennial
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats should not chew jonquil. The plant contains lycorine and related alkaloids — concentrated in the bulb — that reliably trigger vomiting, drooling and diarrhea, and large ingestions can progress to tremors and cardiac arrhythmias.
What to watch for
The first signs are usually drooling and vomiting, followed by diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. With larger ingestions — especially if a cat has chewed a bulb — watch for tremors, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and convulsions. The bulb is the most poisonous part of the plant.
Time window
GI signs typically appear within hours of ingestion. ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline note signs may appear immediately but can also be delayed; precise onset windows are not well documented for cats.
When to call the vet
Call your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) any time you see vomiting, persistent drooling, or know your cat has chewed a bulb. Don't wait for severe signs — bulb ingestions warrant a same-hour call.
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
Vomiting, excessive salivation, diarrhea, and potential abdominal pain.
Escalation note
Ingestion of the bulb is particularly dangerous due to higher concentrations of toxins. Please contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your cat has consumed 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
The jonquil contains lycorine and other alkaloids that are toxic to both cats and dogs.
Questions about Jonquil
Is jonquil toxic to cats?
Yes, jonquil (Narcissus jonquilla) is toxic to cats. It contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, excessive salivation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The bulb is the most dangerous part due to higher concentrations of toxins.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating a jonquil?
The first signs are usually drooling and vomiting, followed by diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. With larger ingestions — especially if your cat chewed a bulb — watch for tremors, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and convulsions. GI signs can appear within hours, though onset timing is not precisely documented for cats.
What should I do if my cat ate a jonquil?
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian as soon as possible — bulb ingestions warrant a same-hour call, so don't wait for severe signs to appear. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian specifically instructs you to.
Is the jonquil bulb more poisonous to cats than the flowers or leaves?
Yes, the bulb is the most poisonous part of the jonquil because it contains higher concentrations of the toxic alkaloids. Any part of the plant can cause harm, but a cat that has chewed a bulb is at greater risk for serious effects including tremors, irregular heartbeat, and convulsions beyond the typical GI symptoms.
Same cat verdict
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