✕ Toxic

Blood Lily

Q: Is Blood Lily toxic to cats?

Warning: Toxic. Blood Lily (Scadoxus multiflorus, also known as Haemanthus) is a striking bulbous plant with large, spherical flower heads in vivid red. Like Amaryllis — a close relative in the Amaryllidaceae family — it contains lycorine and other phenanthridine alkaloids concentrated throughout the plant, with the highest levels in the bulb. Lycorine inhibits protein synthesis at the cellular level and acts as an emetic, triggering gastrointestinal reactions such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Authorities classify it as low toxicity with predominantly gastrointestinal signs, but the showy flowers may attract cats' curiosity.

Scadoxus spp.

Blood Lily (Scadoxus multiflorus, also known as Haemanthus) is a striking bulbous plant with large, spherical flower heads in vivid red. Like Amaryllis — a close relative in the Amaryllidaceae family — it contains lycorine and other phenanthridine alkaloids concentrated throughout the plant, with the highest levels in the bulb. Lycorine inhibits protein synthesis at the cellular level and acts as an emetic, triggering gastrointestinal reactions such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Authorities classify it as low toxicity with predominantly gastrointestinal signs, but the showy flowers may attract cats' curiosity.

Important Notes

Symptoms: Drooling, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. Signs are predominantly gastrointestinal.

Bulb contains alkaloids: The underground bulb contains a high alkaloid concentration. Cats that dig in pots or garden beds face exposure risk.

Action: Contact a vet if your cat ingests any part of the plant, especially if vomiting or diarrhea persists.

Potentially Toxic Parts

Bulb

All parts of the plant

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Vomiting

Gastrointestinal

Diarrhea

Gastrointestinal

Salivation

Gastrointestinal

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.