Primrose
Primula vulgaris · Primulaceae
How it looks
Primrose is a small herb with wrinkled, oval leaves growing in a clump from the base. The flowers have five petals around a yellow center, and pink, yellow, purple, and white are common. It reaches about 4-12 in (10-30 cm) tall and blooms in spring.
Caution — monitor for GI symptoms
All parts of Primrose (especially the bulb) contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting and diarrhea if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble of Primrose usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the saponins and cyclamin in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
Details
- Scientific name
- Primula vulgaris
- Common name
- Primrose
- Family
- Primulaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the bulbs)
- Compounds
- Saponins, Cyclamin
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Primulaceae
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