Is Coreopsis Poisonous for Cats?

No Need to Worry

• The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals lists coreopsis as being nontoxic to cats, as well as horses or dogs. The Blue Mountain Humane Society also lists coreopsis as being nontoxic, though it notes that ingesting any plant material can cause symptoms in pets such as vomiting, diarrhea and depression. If you have concerns about coreopsis toxicity, contact your local veterinarian or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. You may have to pay the ASPCA a consultation fee.

Professionals Only

• Do not attempt to treat your cat if it seems to be suffering from plant poisoning. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals warns that you should never to attempt to make your cat vomit. It also recommends contacting your veterinarian immediately if you have any suspicions that your pet has been poisoned. Do not watch and wait for an adverse reaction. Keep your cat away from other pets to avoid any potential cross-contamination.

Lookout For Lookalikes

• Mums (chrysanthemum spp.) are popular garden perennials characterized by daisylike flowers and a bushy growth habit. The plant can be found in gardens in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 to 9, growing in sunny or partially shaded conditions. The ASPCA lists mums as being toxic to cats, dogs and horses, causing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, loss of coordination and skin irritation. Mums may not be suitable for a household with curious pets.

Coreopsis Culture

• Coreopsis may be grown in USDA zones 4 to 10. According to the University of Florida Extension, coreopsis prefer a sunny location with well-draining soil that is moist and not too rich. Flooded or rich soil may cause the plants fall over. In good growing conditions, coreopsis may reseed. Remove dead flowers as they appear to prolong the growing season. If growing multiple plants, space them 6 to 12 inches apart. Avoid overhead irrigation to help prevent diseases such as rust and leaf spot.