Is Grape Hyacinth Toxic to Cats?

Grape hyacinth, also known as Muscari, is a popular flowering plant in many gardens due to its colorful display of blue, purple, and white flowers. However, if you're a cat owner, you may be wondering if this plant is safe to have around your furry friend. In this article, we’ll explore whether grape hyacinth is toxic to cats and what steps you can take to keep your pet safe.

What is Grape Hyacinth?

Grape hyacinth is a member of the Lily family and is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is a bulbous plant that produces spikes of flowers resembling clusters of grapes, hence the name grape hyacinth. Typically, grape hyacinths begin to bloom in early spring and continue through late spring or early summer. The plant comes in a variety of colors, including blue, purple, and white, and is often used in borders, rock gardens, and containers.

Is Grape Hyacinth Toxic to Cats?

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), grape hyacinth is considered toxic to cats. The plant contains lycorine, which is a natural, toxic alkaloid. Lycorine is toxic to cats and can cause gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, diarrhea, and even depression if ingested in large quantities.

Cats can become very sick if they ingest grape hyacinth, and it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately if your cat shows signs of poisoning. The signs of poisoning can vary depending on the amount of the plant ingested and the size of your cat. If you suspect your cat has ingested grape hyacinth, contact your veterinarian right away, or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Preventing Grape Hyacinth Poisoning in Cats

The best way to keep your cat safe is to prevent them from coming into contact with grape hyacinth. If you have grape hyacinth in your garden or around your home, keep a close eye on your cat and discourage them from eating or playing with the plant. If your cat is an outdoor cat, it is best to keep them indoors during the spring and summer months when grape hyacinth is in bloom. By keeping your cat indoors, you can help prevent accidental ingestion of grape hyacinth or other toxic plants.

If you are a farmer and you notice that grape hyacinths are growing in your pasture or other areas where your cats have access , it is essential to get rid of them as soon as possible to prevent accidental ingestion. You can remove the plants manually or with a herbicide, and once they are gone, it is essential to keep an eye out for any new growth and remove it as needed to keep your cats safe.

Conclusion

Grape hyacinth is a beautiful plant, but it is not safe for cats. While it is not as toxic as other plants, cats can still become very sick if they ingest grape hyacinth. As a responsible pet owner, it is your responsibility to keep your cat safe from accidental poisoning. If you suspect your cat has ingested grape hyacinth or any other toxic plant, seek veterinary care right away.