Is Cyclamen Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Yes, cyclamen is toxic to cats and dogs. This plant, which also goes by the name sowbread, contains substances that can make pets sick if they eat it. While any part of the plant can cause a reaction, the tubers or roots contain the highest concentration of these toxic compounds.
Pet owners should be aware of the risks before bringing a cyclamen plant into a home with cats or dogs. Understanding which parts are most dangerous and what symptoms to look for is key to keeping pets safe.
Cyclamen: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Cyclamen |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Sowbread |
| Scientific name | Cyclamen spp |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Terpenoid saponins |
| Clinical signs listed | Salivation, vomiting, diarrhea. Following large ingestions of tubers: heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures, death |
What the ASPCA says about cyclamen
The ASPCA lists cyclamen as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. The toxic principles are identified as terpenoid saponins. These are naturally occurring compounds in the plant that can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets.
The most common clinical signs after a pet ingests parts of a cyclamen plant include excessive salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. If a pet consumes a large amount of the plant’s tubers, more severe signs can occur. These include heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures, and in some cases, death. While the entire plant is a concern, the tubers located in the soil contain the highest concentration of the toxic compounds.
What this means for a home with pets
Having a cyclamen in your home requires careful management if you also have pets. Cats and dogs that chew on or eat the leaves, stems, or flowers may experience gastrointestinal distress. The primary danger, however, comes from pets that like to dig. A dog or a curious cat could unearth the cyclamen tubers, which are potent and present a much greater risk.
Because pets explore the world with their mouths, a plant that causes salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea is a significant hazard. The severe cardiac and neurological signs associated with ingesting a large quantity of tubers make this plant particularly unsafe for pets that dig or chew on roots. Even if a pet only has access to the upper parts of the plant, ingestion can still lead to an uncomfortable reaction.
Keeping pets and this plant apart
The safest approach is to not have cyclamen plants in a home or garden accessible to pets. If you do have this plant, it must be kept securely out of reach of any cat or dog. Placing it on a high shelf may not be enough for an agile cat, so a completely separate or sealed-off room is a better option.
Supervise your pets closely when they are around any plants. For dogs that enjoy digging in the yard, ensure any outdoor cyclamen are in a securely fenced-off area they cannot access. Regularly check your plants for any signs of chewing or missing pieces. Always read the labels on any new plants you bring home to confirm their identity (Cyclamen spp) and potential toxicity to your animals.
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 cat or dog has eaten any part of a cyclamen plant, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline immediately. Be prepared to tell them what part of the plant your pet ate, how much you think they consumed, 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
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- 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
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.