are roses and baby’s breath poisonous to cats

Gypsophila Poisoning in Cats

What are the clinical signs of Gypsophila poisoning in cats, which is usually not life-threatening but can cause a great deal of discomfort for your furry friend? Gyposenin, a saponin found in baby breath and other Gypsophila species, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.

Vomiting and diarrhea may arise from these gastrointestinal symptoms, and they may be preceded or accompanied by an appetite loss, fatigue, or depression. Even though there is no risk to life, it is still upsetting to witness your pet’s illness.

Your best option is to store the floral arrangements in a locked room or at the office. If you’re making your own cut flower bouquet from the garden, it’s even better to remove the baby’s breath from the arrangement and just stay away from it altogether.

8 Common Flowers That Are Toxic to Cats

Here are some of the most common flowers that are toxic to cats. This is not an exhaustive list, so if you aren’t sure about a plant that you find in a gifted bouquet or your yard, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. Here are some flowers that can definitely make your pet sick if ingested:

  • Azalea
  • Baby’s Breath
  • Chrysanthemum
  • Daisy
  • Daffodil
  • Lily (also Peace Lily and Lily of the Valley)
  • Poinsettia
  • Tulips

Tulips Are Dangerous to Cats

Given that tulips and dangerous lilies are related, tulips should not be grown in homes where there are cats. Because tulips are so popular in gardens and flower arrangements, it’s critical that cat owners keep an eye out for these plants in their house and yard. Similar to daffodils, the tulip bulb contains the highest concentration of tulipalin A and B, the chemicals that will make your cat ill, and will therefore cause the most severe reaction. However, because these compounds are found in every part of the flower, keep your cat away from tulips in any form.

FAQ

What happens if cats eat baby’s breath?

It is moderately toxic to cats and can cause symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. If your cat consumes any part of the baby’s breath plant, you might also notice lethargy or a lack of energy and your cat might even stop eating.

Are roses poisonous to cats?

Fortunately, roses are non-toxic to cats. So, you don’t need to worry about the petals, leaves, and stems of a rose poisoning a cat if they ingest it. But it may upset their stomach and make them feel sorry for themselves, as roses are likely something outside of your cat’s regular diet.

Can a cat take a baby’s breath?

One of the most common worries when it comes to cats with babies is ‘stealing breath’. As the name suggests, this is the belief that cats will suffocate a baby by breathing in its breath. Of course, this moggie myth is untrue and it’s as silly as it sounds — our furry friends do not suck away the breath of babies!

Why are cats attracted to baby’s breath?

Supposedly, this happens because either the cat is attracted to the milk scent on a baby’s breath, or it is simply jealous that the owners are giving more attention to the baby.