Why?
Tulips contain tulipalins, irritating compounds found throughout the plant but most concentrated in the bulb. A chewed leaf or flower mostly causes drooling, vomiting and diarrhea. Eating a bulb can cause stronger effects, with lethargy and, in rare cases, a faster heart rate or breathing changes.
How much?
No amount is safe. Keep bouquets out of reach, dump vase water where your cat can't drink it, and store bulbs in a closed place.
The risks
- Heavy drooling
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Lethargy and loss of appetite
- Bulbs: faster heart rate, breathing changes (rare)
Your cat ate some: what now?
Call your vet or an animal poison control center without waiting for symptoms, especially if your cat ate a bulb. Bring the plant or a photo, and don't try to make your cat vomit.
Better options
For spring bouquets, choose flowers considered non-toxic to cats, like roses, gerbera daisies or phalaenopsis orchids. A pot of cat grass can also lure your cat away from your flowers.
Common questions
Are tulip bulbs more dangerous than the flowers?
Yes, the bulb is the most toxic part, since the irritating compounds are concentrated there. Be careful when planting bulbs in the fall if your cat joins you in the garden.
Are tulips as dangerous as lilies?
No. Tulips mainly cause digestive upset, while true lilies can destroy the kidneys. Tulips are still toxic, though, so call your vet if your cat ate some.
This information is general and does not replace advice from a veterinarian. If your cat has swallowed something toxic, call your vet or an animal poison control center right away, without waiting for symptoms.