About Larkspur toxicity

Larkspur (Delphinium species) is marked as potentially toxic to cats, dogs, horses in the Plants4Pets database. Keep this plant out of reach of curious pets and read the species-specific notes below.

Is Larkspur toxic to cats, dogs or horses?

Community confirmations show that other users find this rating helpful. They are not verified by our team.

Larkspur plant details and common names

Family: Ranunculaceae

Safety advice if a pet eats Larkspur

Many popular houseplants and garden species can cause vomiting, drooling, skin irritation or more serious symptoms when chewed by cats, dogs or horses. The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not replace a veterinary consultation.

If your pet has eaten any part of Larkspur (Delphinium species), note the amount ingested, watch for unusual behaviour and contact a veterinarian or pet poison helpline immediately.

Found outdated or incorrect data? Use the report form below or e-mail kontakt@plants4pets.pl with the plant name, species affected and your source — we review every submission.

FAQ: Larkspur and pet toxicity

Is Larkspur toxic to cats?
Yes. According to Plants4Pets, Larkspur is toxic to cats. Unless there is a lack of suitable forage, horses typically do not consume toxic amounts of larkspur. The toxicity of the plant may vary depending on seasonal changes and field conditions; as the plant matures, it generally becomes less toxic. The alkaloids in the plant cause neuromuscular paralysis; clinical effects include constipation, colic, increased salivation, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, recumbency, and convulsions. Cardiac failure may occur, as can death from respiratory paralysis. Toxic principles: Diterpene alkaloids This entry has not been manually verified yet — treat it as guidance only.
Is Larkspur toxic to dogs?
Yes. According to Plants4Pets, Larkspur is toxic to dogs. Unless there is a lack of suitable forage, horses typically do not consume toxic amounts of larkspur. The toxicity of the plant may vary depending on seasonal changes and field conditions; as the plant matures, it generally becomes less toxic. The alkaloids in the plant cause neuromuscular paralysis; clinical effects include constipation, colic, increased salivation, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, recumbency, and convulsions. Cardiac failure may occur, as can death from respiratory paralysis. Toxic principles: Diterpene alkaloids This entry has not been manually verified yet — treat it as guidance only.
Is Larkspur toxic to horses?
Yes. According to Plants4Pets, Larkspur is toxic to horses. Unless there is a lack of suitable forage, horses typically do not consume toxic amounts of larkspur. The toxicity of the plant may vary depending on seasonal changes and field conditions; as the plant matures, it generally becomes less toxic. The alkaloids in the plant cause neuromuscular paralysis; clinical effects include constipation, colic, increased salivation, muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, recumbency, and convulsions. Cardiac failure may occur, as can death from respiratory paralysis. Toxic principles: Diterpene alkaloids This entry has not been manually verified yet — treat it as guidance only.
Which pets are most at risk from Larkspur?
Our database flags Larkspur as toxic to: cats, dogs, horses.
What should I do if my pet eats Larkspur?
Remove remaining plant material, do not induce vomiting unless a vet instructs you to, and seek professional help immediately with the plant name ready.

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Delphinium species / Larkspur

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