Cat owners warned over common springtime flowers that can be toxic for cats
As we fill our homes with spring flowers, Petplan is sharing the poisonous plants to keep away from cats.
Last year, Petplan recorded £454,421 in claims for cats with lily poisoning, compared to £11,583 for dogs. Petplan also found cats account for the vast majority of plant-poisoning claims, as between 2023–2025, there were approximately 95% of plant-poisoning claims for cats.
From toxic spring plants such as hyacinths, daffodils and lilies, Petplan’s veterinary expert, Dr Brian Faulkner, has shared his essential advice on identifying and avoiding toxic plants for cats, suggesting safe alternatives and recognising the signs of poisoning.
It's not just the flower that cat owners should be aware of- leaves, stems and pollen can be dangerous for cats too, particularly lilies and "without immediate veterinary treatment, lily poisoning in cats is often irreversible and deadly" according to Petplan's vet Dr Brian Faulkner.
Top spring plants that are toxic for cats include:
- Lilies
- Azaleas
- Daffodils
- Foxglove
- Tulips
- Rhododendron
- Fritillary
- Garden star-of-Bethlehem
- Hyacinths
- Vinca minor (Periwinkle)
Symptoms of plant poisoning can include:
- Itching
- Swelling
- Red or watery eyes
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Excessive drinking
- Seizures
For further information on poisonous plants for cats, please visit Petplan's page here: https://www.petplan.co.uk/cat-insurance/cat-care-and-advice/what-plants-are-poisonous-to-cats.html
