Is Iris Toxic to Pets?
Yes — iris is mildly toxic to cats. Yes — iris is mildly toxic to dogs. Yes — iris is mildly toxic to horses.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Scientific name
- Iris spp.
- Toxic compound
- Pentacyclic terpenoids
- Toxic parts
- Bulbs/rhizomes (most toxic)
- Also known as
- flag, sword lily
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Dogs (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Horses (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
What to do
If your cat ate iris
- Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.
If your dog ate iris
- Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.
If your horse ate iris
- Remove any plant material from your horse's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your horse is small, young or elderly.
Good to know
Iris rhizomes cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhea; leaves and flowers are less concentrated.
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Frequently asked questions
Is iris toxic to cats?
Yes — iris is mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is iris toxic to dogs?
Yes — iris is mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is iris toxic to horses?
Yes — iris is mildly toxic to horses. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Which parts of iris are toxic?
Bulbs/rhizomes (most toxic).
What makes iris toxic?
Pentacyclic terpenoids.
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