Are cyclamen plants poisonous to cats?
—Nerina O. Possibly, Nerina. The genus Cyclamen encompasses quite a few different species. It is believed that a great many, if not all, species contain the toxic principal cyclamine. While the largest concentration of this toxic principal is generally contained within the tuber, the rest of the plant may also contain some level of cyclamine. Because of this, we consider the whole plant to have at least some degree of toxic potential to pets. It is important to remember that just because the tubers are underground when they are planted does not necessarily mean that an animal will not consume them. It is not at all uncommon for dogs, and certain other pets, to dig up and ingest entire plants?leaves, stems, bulbs, tubers, roots and all! Pets will even eat the tubers and other parts straight out of a package an owner has brought home from the store. Because of its toxic potential, we advise not allowing your cat to nibble on cyclamen.
