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Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum umbellatum
Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) is a bulbous flowering plant toxic to cats throughout all its parts. It contains cardenolide cardiac glycosides — specifically convallatoxin-related compounds — concentrated in the bulbs and leaves. These affect the heart in a similar way to Foxglove and Lily of the Valley.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: cardenolide cardiac glycosides (convallotoxin, convalloside-related compounds); bulbs most concentrated
Mechanism: cardenolides inhibit Na+/K+-ATPase in cardiac muscle, disrupting electrical conduction and causing arrhythmias
Symptoms: vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, abnormal heart rate, weakness, collapse
All parts are toxic — flowers, leaves, and especially bulbs; the plant is commonly found in gardens and naturalised fields
Seek veterinary care promptly if ingestion is suspected
Potentially Toxic Parts
Stem
Entire Plant
Leaf
Flower
Bulb
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate), tachycardia (abnormally fast heart rate), and cardiac arrhythmias
Cardiac · Within the first 2 hours after exposure
Hyperkalemia (dangerously elevated potassium levels in the blood)
Gastrointestinal · Within the first 2 hours after exposure
Vomiting and diarrhea
Gastrointestinal · Within the first 2 hours after exposure
Weakness
Gastrointestinal · Within the first 2 hours after exposure
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.