Buttercup

Yes, buttercups (Ranunculus spp.) are toxic to cats. They contain protoanemonin, a compound that causes oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Symptoms are typically uncomfortable but not life-threatening in most cases.

The earliest signs are heavy drooling, pawing at the mouth, and visible irritation or small ulcers on the tongue or gums, usually appearing within about 3 hours of chewing. These are often followed by vomiting, diarrhea, and reduced appetite. Larger ingestions can also cause depression and a wobbly gait.

If you can do so safely, gently wipe your cat's mouth and remove any plant pieces stuck on the teeth or fur. Do not try to make your cat vomit and do not give over-the-counter medications. Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 before coming in so they can advise on next steps.

Buttercups contain protoanemonin, an irritating compound released when the plant is chewed or crushed. It causes direct irritation and blistering to the mouth, tongue, and gastrointestinal tract. Most cats recover within 24–48 hours once the compound is cleared and oral pain is managed, though oral ulcers can take several days to fully heal.

Yes, buttercups (Ranunculus spp.) are potentially toxic to dogs. They contain protoanemonin, an irritant compound in the sap that causes discomfort on contact and if ingested.

Expect heavy drooling and pawing at the mouth first, often with a foul-smelling breath from blistering. This can be followed by vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and mouth sores. In cases of large ingestions, depression, wobbly gait, weakness, or labored breathing have been reported, and stool may contain blood if the GI tract is significantly irritated.

Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and offer fresh water, but do not induce vomiting and do not give human pain or stomach medications. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 before transporting so they can prepare care — a vet may start activated charcoal or IV fluids on arrival depending on how much was eaten.

Signs typically appear within 3–6 hours of ingestion. Most dogs recover within 24–48 hours with fluids and a bland diet, though oral ulcers can take several days to heal and a soft diet for about a week is commonly recommended.