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Is Buttercup toxic to dogs and cats?

Ranunculus spp. · Ranunculaceae

Yes — Buttercup is toxic to pets (mild). Rabbits especially; also dogs and livestock

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Is Buttercup toxic to cats?Is Buttercup toxic to dogs?
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Why it is toxic

Ranunculin, which converts to the irritant protoanemonin in fresh plants; drying into hay destroys it

How fast symptoms appear: Immediate with fresh plant

Symptoms of poisoning
  • Mouth irritation and blistering
  • Drooling
  • Diarrhoea
  • Reluctance to eat
What to do first
  1. Remove fresh buttercup from grazing areas and rabbit forage.
  2. Call the vet if a rabbit stops eating or passing droppings.
(888) 426-4435ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (855) 764-7661Pet Poison Helpline
What your vet will do
Symptomatic mouth and gut care; in rabbits, gut-motility support if appetite drops.

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Sources: Merck Veterinary Manual, Toxicology; Pet Poison Helpline. PetPlantGuard is complementary to veterinary care and never replaces your vet.