Is Paperwhite Toxic to Pets?
Yes — paperwhite is toxic to cats. Yes — paperwhite is toxic to dogs.
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
- Narcissus papyraceus
- Toxic compound
- Lycorine and other alkaloids
- Toxic parts
- Bulbs most of all
- Also known as
- narcissus
Symptoms
Cats (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Diarrhea
- Low blood pressure
- Abnormal heart rhythm (large ingestions)
Dogs (toxic)
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Diarrhea
- Low blood pressure
- Abnormal heart rhythm (large ingestions)
What to do
If your cat ate paperwhite
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your cat ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
If your dog ate paperwhite
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your dog ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
Paperwhites are narcissus bulbs forced for winter blooms. The bulb is the most dangerous part.
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Pet-safe alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Is paperwhite toxic to cats?
Yes — paperwhite is toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, drooling, diarrhea.
Is paperwhite toxic to dogs?
Yes — paperwhite is toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, drooling, diarrhea.
Which parts of paperwhite are toxic?
Bulbs most of all.
What makes paperwhite toxic?
Lycorine and other alkaloids.