Is Bleeding Heart Toxic to Cats?

Yes — Bleeding Heart is moderately toxic to cats

Bleeding Heart is a popular shade garden perennial with distinctive heart-shaped flowers. All parts contain isoquinoline alkaloids that can cause neurological symptoms in pets if ingested in significant amounts.

Symptoms in Cats

If your cat eats Bleeding Heart, watch for these symptoms (onset: 30 minutes to 2 hours):

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Tremors
Seizures (large amounts)
Respiratory depression

What To Do

Contact vet immediately if tremors or breathing changes occur. Small ingestions usually cause GI upset only.

Cat-Safe Alternatives to Bleeding Heart

✓ Impatiens ✓ Pansy ✓ Snapdragon

Quick Facts

Scientific Name

Lamprocapnos spectabilis

Also Toxic to Dogs?

Yes (moderate)

Toxic Compound

Isoquinoline alkaloids (protopine, allocryptopine)

Toxic Parts

all parts, roots, foliage

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline. View full Bleeding Heart toxicity profile.