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Tulip
Tulipa spp.
Tulip (Tulipa spp.) is a popular spring bulb flower that is toxic to cats throughout all its parts, with the highest concentration of toxins in the bulbs. It contains tulipalin A and tulipalin B — allergenic lactone compounds — and other irritant glycosides. The bulb is particularly dangerous as it is accessible during planting and storage seasons.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: tulipalin A and tulipalin B (allergenic lactone compounds), along with irritant glycosides; bulbs most concentrated
Mechanism: tulipalins cause direct mucosal irritation and allergic contact dermatitis; large bulb ingestion may cause CNS depression and cardiac effects
Symptoms: vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, lethargy; large bulb ingestion may cause tremors, abnormal heart rate, or breathing difficulty
Bulbs are especially dangerous during autumn planting or spring storage — keep stored bulbs away from cats
Contact your vet if your cat ingests a bulb or shows more than mild GI symptoms
Potentially Toxic Parts
Bulb
Entire Plant
Flower
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Vomiting, diarrhea, and significant stomach upset
Gastrointestinal
Elevated heart rate (tachycardia) and cardiac arrhythmias
Cardiac
Changes to respiration and difficulty breathing
Respiratory
Tremors and convulsions (seizures)
Gastrointestinal
Irritation to the mouth, throat, and skin, leading to profuse drooling (ptyalism)
Gastrointestinal
Depression
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.