§ Toxic plants · Ranunculaceae · Checked Oct 2026
Is hellebores and lenten roses toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. Hellebores and lenten roses (Helleborus spp.) is toxic to cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Plant Smart rates its effects Moderate, level 2 of 4.
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§ 010 · Signs
What to watch for
Signs include drooling, belly pain, diarrhea and dullness or depression. Signs can start within hours; some take a day or more to show.
§ 020 · If it happened
What to do if your pet ate it
Call your vet or a pet poison hotline straight away, even if your pet seems fine: the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline, (855) 764-7661. Both are open 24 hours and charge a fee. Have the plant or a photo of it to hand, and don’t make your pet vomit unless a vet tells you to.
§ 030 · Same family
Other Ranunculaceae plants toxic to pets
Hellebores and lenten roses belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. ASPCA lists these relatives too.
§ 040 · Questions
Questions about hellebores and lenten roses and pets
Is hellebores and lenten roses toxic to cats?
Yes. ASPCA lists hellebores and lenten roses as toxic to cats.
Is hellebores and lenten roses toxic to dogs?
Yes. ASPCA lists hellebores and lenten roses as toxic to dogs.
What happens if my pet eats hellebores and lenten roses?
Signs include drooling, belly pain, diarrhea and dullness or depression. Plant Smart rates it Moderate, level 2 of 4.
What should I do if my pet ate it?
Call your vet or a pet poison hotline right away, even before signs appear: the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. Both charge a fee. Have the plant, or a photo of it, to hand.