Is Daphne toxic to cats?

Extreme severity No safe amount — No amount is considered safe.

Yes, Daphne is extremely toxic to cats. Even a small amount can be life-threatening, so treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately. No amount is considered safe.

Symptoms to watch for

ulceration of the mouth
blistering of the mouth
esophageal ulceration
stomach ulceration
drooling
vomiting
bloody diarrhea
seizures
coma
death

How vets treat it

Immediate veterinary intervention is required for decontamination, gastrointestinal protection, and supportive care for potential neurological signs.

Why it's dangerous

The diterpene toxins cause direct irritation and corrosive damage to the mucosal linings of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to ulceration and blistering.

Toxic compound: diterpenes

Good to know

The plant is also toxic to farm animals; however, the bitter taste of the fruit often prevents large ingestions.

Sources

Pet Poison Helpline

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

The StrawPaw Team · How we prepare our guides

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