Cats & Dogs
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
Pet safety reference
Peony
Paeonia officinalis
The peony is a popular garden perennial known for its large, showy blooms. While prized for its beauty, all parts of the plant contain paeonol, which can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Garden PeonyPaeonia officinalisPeony
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Habit
- Herbaceous perennial
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
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, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Escalation note
Ingestion typically results in mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. Please contact your veterinarian if your cat has consumed any part of this plant.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, and depression.
Escalation note
Symptoms are generally limited to the digestive tract. Consult a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has ingested the plant to ensure proper monitoring.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Peony is listed as toxic to dogs and cats, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and depression.
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted scientific name and botanical classification for Paeonia officinalis.
Questions about Peony
Are peonies toxic to cats?
Yes, peonies (Paeonia officinalis) are toxic to cats. All parts of the plant contain paeonol, which causes gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The toxicity is considered mild to moderate — serious outcomes are uncommon, but any ingestion warrants monitoring.
What symptoms will my cat show after eating a peony?
The most common signs are vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Cats may also drool from the plant's bitter taste and appear low-energy or 'depressed.' Symptoms typically begin within a few hours of ingestion and usually resolve within 24–48 hours with rest and bland feeding.
What should I do if my cat ate part of a peony?
Move your cat away from the plant and gently wipe any plant material from in and around the mouth with a damp cloth. Do not induce vomiting in cats. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 for guidance — a same-day vet visit is normally appropriate, but ER care is rarely needed.
When should I take my cat to the vet after peony ingestion?
Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea persists more than a few hours, your cat refuses food and water, or the lethargy appears severe. Most cases are mild and resolve at home, but a same-day appointment is a reasonable precaution given that exact paeonol toxicity timing is not well documented.
Are peonies toxic to dogs?
Yes, peonies (Paeonia officinalis) are toxic to dogs. All parts of the plant contain paeonol, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression if ingested.
What symptoms will my dog show after eating a peony?
Signs typically begin within hours of ingestion and include vomiting, diarrhea, and a lethargic or 'depressed' demeanor. Larger ingestions — especially of bark or roots where paeonol concentrates — can produce more substantial GI upset. Symptoms generally resolve within 24–48 hours with supportive care.
What should I do if my dog ate a peony?
Get your dog away from the plant and gently wipe any plant material from in and around the mouth with a damp cloth. Do not induce vomiting unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to. Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your vet for guidance.
Which part of the peony plant is most dangerous to dogs?
Paeonol is present throughout the entire plant, but it concentrates in the bark and roots, meaning those parts pose the greatest risk for more severe GI upset. Even ingestion of petals or leaves can cause vomiting and diarrhea, so all parts should be treated as hazardous.
Same safety verdict
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