Is Carnation Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)
Dianthus caryophyllus
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Quick facts
| Toxic to dogs | Yes |
|---|---|
| Toxic to cats | Yes |
| Toxic to horses | Yes |
| Toxic component | Unidentified mild irritants |
| Onset of symptoms | Within a few hours |
| Indoor / outdoor | indoor |
If your pet ate this plant
Both lines are staffed 24/7. A consultation fee applies to each. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
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Symptoms in dogs
- Mild GI upset
- Skin irritation (dermatitis) from contact
Symptoms in cats
- Mild GI upset
- Skin irritation from contact
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What to do
Usually resolves with monitoring; one of the milder entries among common cut flowers.
Toxic component and mechanism
The toxic component in Carnation is unidentified mild irritants.
What makes this plant different
Carnations are among the most commonly given cut flowers, and fortunately also among the mildest on this entire list — most reactions are limited to mild stomach upset or skin irritation from handling, not systemic poisoning.
Plant identification
- Scientific name
- Dianthus caryophyllus
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Also known as
- Carnation, Pinks, Wild Carnation, Sweet William
- Typically found
- indoor
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Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control