Is Daffodil (Narcissus) Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Daffodils (narcissus) are moderately toxic to cats and dogs — the bulb is most dangerous, causing vomiting, drooling, and in larger amounts tremors and heart issues. Call a vet.
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 Daffodil (Narcissus)?
Daffodils (narcissus) are moderately toxic to cats and dogs — the bulb is most dangerous, causing vomiting, drooling, and in larger amounts tremors and heart issues. Call a vet.
Also known as: narcissus, daffodil, jonquil, narcissus bulb, daffodil bulb.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea from mouth and gut irritation
- Abdominal pain and reduced appetite
- In larger amounts: tremors, low blood pressure, and an irregular heart rate
- The bulb is the most toxic part
🐈 In Cats
- Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Mouth irritation and reduced appetite
- In larger amounts: tremors or an abnormal heart rate
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:
- A daffodil bulb was eaten
- Persistent vomiting, drooling, or diarrhea
- Tremors, weakness, or an irregular heartbeat
- A large amount was ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which part of the daffodil is most toxic?
The bulb contains the highest concentration of the toxic compounds (lycorine and other alkaloids). The leaves, stems, and flowers are also toxic but less so. Dogs that dig up and eat stored bulbs are at the greatest risk.
What are the signs of daffodil poisoning?
Drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most common signs, caused by the irritating alkaloids. With larger ingestions — especially of the bulb — watch for abdominal pain, tremors, low blood pressure, and an irregular heart rate. Call a vet if a bulb was eaten.
Are daffodils in a vase safe around pets?
Cut daffodil stems and flowers can still cause drooling and vomiting if chewed, and the vase water can become irritating. The main risk is the bulb, so keep stored bulbs well out of reach and call a vet if your pet chews on a bouquet.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11