Plants / Peony / cats

Is peony toxic to cats?

Peony is mildly toxic to cats (S1 Caution): its paeonol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy, and Pet Poison Helpline ties the upset to eating large amounts — a bouquet nibble is unlikely to matter, a feast can.

  • TOXINpaeonol
  • WHAT TO EXPECTvomiting; diarrhea; depression
  • CALL THE VETCall your vet if vomiting or diarrhea persists or worsens, or your cat stops eating or drinking.
S0S1S2S3S4

Symptoms

SIGN
vomiting
diarrhea
depression

If your cat just ate it

S1 PROTOCOL
1
Remove chewed petals and leaves and move the vase or plant out of reach. If you're unsure, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
2
When to call the vet: Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea persists or worsens, or your cat stops eating or drinking.

Care at a glance

Lightdirect
Waterevery 3–5 days
Humiditymedium
Difficulty●●○