Is Amaryllis Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Amaryllis is moderately toxic to cats and dogs — the bulb is most dangerous, causing vomiting, drooling, and abdominal pain. Popular at the holidays. Call a vet if a bulb is eaten.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is Amaryllis?
Amaryllis is moderately toxic to cats and dogs — the bulb is most dangerous, causing vomiting, drooling, and abdominal pain. Popular at the holidays. Call a vet if a bulb is eaten.
Also known as: amaryllis belladonna, belladonna lily, naked lady, amaryllis bulb, hippeastrum.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea from mouth and gut irritation
- Abdominal pain and reduced appetite
- In larger amounts: tremors, drooling, and low blood pressure
- The bulb is the most toxic part
🐈 In Cats
- Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Mouth irritation and reduced appetite
- In larger amounts: tremors or lethargy
What to Do If Ingested
- Remove any remaining plant or bulb material from the mouth.
- Rinse the mouth with water to reduce irritation.
- Note whether the bulb was eaten (it is most concentrated).
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline for guidance.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- An amaryllis bulb was eaten
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Tremors, weakness, or lethargy
- A large amount was ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is amaryllis a common poisoning risk?
Amaryllis bulbs are popular holiday gifts and indoor plants, and the bulbs are the most toxic part. Dogs that dig up or chew stored bulbs are at the greatest risk. All parts of the plant contain harmful alkaloids, but the bulb is the most concentrated.
What are the signs of amaryllis poisoning?
Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea from the irritating alkaloids are the most common signs. With larger ingestions — especially of the bulb — watch for abdominal pain, tremors, drooling, and low blood pressure. Call a vet if a bulb was eaten.
Are amaryllis flowers safer than the bulb?
The flowers, leaves, and stems contain the same toxic alkaloids as the bulb, but in lower concentrations. They can still cause drooling and vomiting if chewed. The bulb is the most dangerous part, so keep stored bulbs away from pets.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11