Peonies (genus Paeonia) are popular perennial garden plants prized for their large, showy, and often fragrant blooms. While they are a beautiful addition to American gardens, they contain compounds that are harmful to pets. The entire plant, including the roots, leaves, stems, and flowers, contains paeonol and other potentially toxic compounds. These substances are concentrated most highly in the bark of the roots. If ingested by a pet, these compounds can cause gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms.
Peonies are indeed toxic to both cats and dogs. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) explicitly lists the common garden peony (Paeonia officinalis) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. The primary toxic agent, paeonol, is a phenolic compound that can irritate the digestive system. The level of toxicity is generally considered mild to moderate, meaning it is unlikely to be fatal but will cause significant discomfort and illness requiring veterinary attention.
If a pet chews on or ingests any part of a peony plant, it may exhibit a range of symptoms, typically within a few hours. The most common signs are related to gastrointestinal upset. Pet owners should be vigilant for the following clinical signs: vomiting (which may include pieces of the plant), diarrhea, lethargy or weakness, and abdominal pain or discomfort. In rare cases, particularly with the consumption of a large quantity of plant material, more severe symptoms like depression or excessive drooling could occur.
If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a peony, the first step is to remove any remaining plant material from their mouth. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinarian. It is crucial to contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center (such as the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435) immediately. Be prepared to provide information about the plant, the amount you believe was consumed, and the symptoms your pet is displaying. Treatment is typically supportive and may include anti-vomiting medication, intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration, and monitoring.
The safest strategy for pet owners who love peonies is prevention. Consider planting peonies in areas of the yard that are completely inaccessible to your pets, such as behind a secure fence. For indoor bouquets, place cut peonies in rooms where pets are not allowed or in high, unreachable locations. Providing pets with plenty of safe, engaging toys and their own pet-friendly grass to chew on can help deter them from nibbling on forbidden plants. Always research the toxicity of any new plant before introducing it to your home or garden.
