Toxic to cats · Plants

Is Star of Bethlehem toxic to cats?

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

Yes. Even a small amount can be life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • abnormal heart rhythm
  • abnormal heart rate
  • high potassium level
  • nausea
  • drooling
  • vomiting
  • dilated pupils
  • tremors
  • seizures

How vets treat it

In severe, life-threatening cases, digoxin-specific Fab fragments can be used as an antidote.

Why it's dangerous

The toxins interfere directly with the electrolyte balance within the heart muscle, similar to the effects of digitalis or digoxin.

Toxic compound: Cardiac glycosides (cardenolides or bufadienolides)

Good to know

All parts of the plant are toxic, including the water in a vase. It belongs to the same group as Foxglove, Oleander, and Lily of the Valley.

Sources

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.

More substances toxic to cats

African Wonder Tree Extreme severity Andromeda Japonica Extreme severity Angel's Trumpet Extreme severity Autumn Crocus Extreme severity Everything toxic to cats →

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