Is Amaryllis Toxic to Cats and Dogs?

Q: Is amaryllis toxic to cats?

Toxic to cats. Amaryllis is toxic to dogs and cats. It contains lycorine, which can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, abdominal pain and tremors.

Q: Is amaryllis toxic to dogs?

Toxic to dogs. Amaryllis is toxic to dogs and cats. It contains lycorine, which can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, abdominal pain and tremors.

Amaryllis spp.

Cats

🟠 Toxic

Dogs

🟠 Toxic

Short answer: Amaryllis is toxic to dogs and cats. It contains lycorine, which can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, abdominal pain and tremors.

Think your pet ate amaryllis? call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Signs to watch for

Vomiting
Depression (lethargy)
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Drooling
Loss of appetite
Tremors

Why it’s a problem

Toxic principle: Lycorine and others.

A popular holiday gift plant, also called belladonna lily or naked lady. The AVMA lists it among holiday plants to keep away from pets.

Frequently asked questions

Is amaryllis safe at Christmas with a cat?

No. It’s toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach or choose a non-toxic plant such as Christmas cactus.

Other plants

Peace Lily
Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)
Philodendron
Dieffenbachia (Dumbcane)
Calla Lily
Chinese Evergreen

Sources

ASPCA plant database: Amaryllis

Last checked: 2026-11-11. General information, not veterinary advice.