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Chrysanthemum / Mums
Chrysanthemum morifolium
Chrysanthemums are common flowering plants in autumn, but they are not safe for cats. They contain natural insecticidal compounds such as pyrethrins, as well as other plant chemicals that can irritate the skin and digestive tract. Cats are especially sensitive to these compounds because their livers are not very good at breaking down certain plant toxins. If a cat bites or eats chrysanthemums, it may develop vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, loss of appetite, or lethargy. The risk does not only come from ingestion. Repeated contact with chrysanthemum sap may also irritate a cat’s skin, causing redness, itching, or dermatitis. If you have cats at home, keep chrysanthemums away from them and prevent them from chewing or prolonged contact with the plant.
Important Notes
Symptoms: Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain from ingestion; skin redness, dermatitis, and itching from sap contact; incoordination (ataxia) in more significant exposures.
Sap contact is also a risk: Cats that rub against the plant or groom themselves after contact may develop skin or GI symptoms without directly eating the plant.
Action: Keep Chrysanthemums out of reach. Contact a vet if a cat has ingested any part of the plant or develops significant skin irritation.
Potentially Toxic Parts
Stem
Leaf
Entire Plant
Flower
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Vomiting
Gastrointestinal
Diarrhea
Gastrointestinal
Incoordination (wobbly gait or stumbling)
Neurological
Increased salivation (Ptyalism)
Gastrointestinal
Inappetence (Refusal to eat)
Gastrointestinal
Dermatitis (Skin irritation)
Dermal
Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.