Pet Toxin Reference

Autumn Crocus

Severe
Dogs, Cats
Often within hours, with delayed worsening possible
Colchicine and related alkaloids
Act now: Remove access immediately. Save the package, label, or plant photo. Call your veterinarian or a poison service right away; do not wait for symptoms. Go to an emergency clinic immediately if any signs are present or if a large/known exposure occurred.
Related Toxins

Quick Facts

Common Sources
Fall-blooming garden crocus, bulbs, ornamental beds
Highest Risk
Concentrated forms or large ingestions pose highest risk
Category
Plant
Early Signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling
Emergency Signs
Bloody vomiting, shock, liver/kidney damage, bone marrow suppression
Call Your Vet
Call as soon as exposure is suspected, even if your pet seems normal.

Triage & Next Steps

Why this is dangerous
Autumn crocus is far more dangerous than the spring crocus most owners think of. It can damage multiple organ systems.
Go to ER immediately if
Go now for collapse, repeated vomiting, tremors, seizures, trouble breathing, marked weakness, severe drooling, pale gums, trouble urinating, or any rapidly worsening signs.
What not to do
Do not induce vomiting, give milk/oil/bread, or try home remedies unless a veterinarian specifically tells you to.
Prevention
Choose pet-safer plants when possible, identify every plant in the home or yard, and keep bouquets, bulbs, seeds, and trimmings where pets cannot reach them.

This tool provides rapid educational guidance and is not a substitute for direct veterinary advice. If exposure is suspected, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic promptly.

Reviewed by
Andrew Rocco, DVM

Dr. Rocco is a practicing small animal veterinarian with experience in emergency and urgent care medicine. PetToxin.com was built to give pet owners clear, evidence-based information about common toxin exposures.