Is Larkspur toxic to dogs and cats?
How serious is Larkspur for pets?
Diterpene alkaloids, highest in new growth and seeds, cause neuromuscular paralysis: drooling, muscle tremors, weakness, and in severe cases cardiac or respiratory failure. Poisoning is reported mostly in grazing livestock, but treat any pet ingestion seriously and call a vet.
Delphinium spp.
Also called: Delphinium.
What makes it toxic
Diterpene alkaloids.
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (ASPCA entry for the genus)
Symptoms to watch for
- Constipation
- Colic
- Increased salivation
- Muscle tremors
- Stiffness
- Weakness
- Recumbency (unable to stand)
- Convulsions
- Cardiac failure
- Death from respiratory paralysis
- ASPCA notes the alkaloids cause neuromuscular paralysis, and that toxicity varies with season and field conditions and generally falls as the plant matures
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (ASPCA entry for the genus)
What to do if your pet chewed it
- Move the plant out of reach so they cannot take another bite.
- If your pet is alert, gently rinse their mouth and offer a little water.
- Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435, especially if you see drooling, vomiting, swelling, or lethargy.
Pet-safe swaps
The same green look without the toxicity worry. Each of these is non-toxic to both dogs and cats in our data.
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Buy Apollo a treatQuick answers about Larkspur
Is Larkspur toxic to cats?
Yes, Larkspur is toxic to cats. See all 127 plants toxic to cats.
Is Larkspur toxic to dogs?
Yes, Larkspur is toxic to dogs. See all 124 plants toxic to dogs.
What is Larkspur also called?
Larkspur (Delphinium spp.) is also called Delphinium.
More plant lists
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Scan your plantAlways confirm with a veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) before assuming safety. This is a household reference, not a substitute for professional guidance in a suspected poisoning.
· Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control.
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