Is Amaryllis Toxic to Cats and Dogs?

By the Animal Wellness Desk · Facts last checked October 21, 2026 · General information, not a vet visit

The amaryllis plant is toxic to cats and dogs. According to the ASPCA, plants in the Amaryllis spp. genus contain toxic principles that can cause a range of adverse reactions in pets if ingested.

Amaryllis is a common name for plants in the Amaryllidaceae family. Other names for these plants include Belladonna lily, Saint Joseph lily, Cape Belladonna, and Naked Lady. All parts of the plant present a risk, so pet owners should be cautious about having them in their home or garden.

Amaryllis: what the ASPCA database lists

What the ASPCA lists for amaryllis

The ASPCA identifies amaryllis as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. The toxicity comes from natural substances found in the plant, including lycorine. Ingestion of any part of an amaryllis plant can lead to a variety of clinical signs. These symptoms can range in severity depending on how much of the plant a pet consumes.

According to the ASPCA, the reported signs of amaryllis poisoning include:

• Vomiting (not in horses)
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Hypersalivation, or excessive drooling
• Depression
• Anorexia, or loss of appetite
• Tremors

What this means for a home with pets

If you have cats or dogs, it is safest to keep amaryllis plants out of your home and garden. Pets, especially curious puppies and kittens, may chew on leaves, flowers, or stems out of boredom or interest. Even drinking water from a vase holding amaryllis could pose a risk.

The toxic principles are present throughout the entire plant, from the flower petals down to the bulb. Accidental ingestion can happen quickly. A cat might bat at a flower and then lick its paws, or a dog might dig up a bulb in the yard. Because of this, supervision is key when pets are around any potentially hazardous plants.

Keeping cats and dogs and this plant apart

The most effective way to prevent amaryllis poisoning is to not have the plant where your pets can access it. If you receive one as a gift, consider keeping it in a room that your pets cannot enter, with the door securely closed. Placing a plant on a high shelf may not be enough to deter a determined cat.

For outdoor plants, consider fencing off garden areas to prevent dogs from digging. Always supervise pets when they are outside. If you are unsure whether a plant in your yard is an amaryllis, it is best to err on the side of caution and prevent your pet from interacting with it until you can get a positive identification.

When to call your vet

If your pet chewed or ate part of this plant, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line. Note which plant and which part, how much may be gone and when, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.

If you suspect your pet has chewed on or eaten any part of an amaryllis plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. Be prepared to tell them what part of the plant your pet ate, how much you think was ingested, and when it happened. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking professional advice.

Emergency signs: go now

• Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
• Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
• Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
• Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
• Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear

Book an appointment soon

• Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
• Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
• Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
• Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.

Sources

• ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Amaryllis

Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.