Is Sea Onion Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Squill, Sea Squill, Red Squill · Drimia maritima (syn. Urginea maritima)
What makes it toxic
Cardiac glycosides (scillaren and related bufadienolides, including scilliroside in red squill forms), concentrated in the bulb. They disrupt heart-cell calcium signaling, causing abnormal rhythms; the compounds have a long history in rodenticides for the same reason.
Warning signs to watch for
Vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness, a slow or irregular heartbeat, tremors and collapse, typically within hours of chewing bulb or leaf tissue.
What to do if your cat eats it
Emergency. Go to a vet immediately if any bulb or leaf was chewed — ECG monitoring, decontamination and heart support started early are critical, so bring the plant or a photo.
Common questions
Is a nibble of the bulb serious?
Yes. The bulb is the most concentrated part of the plant, and cardiac glycosides can destabilize heart rhythm even after small amounts. Treat it like an oleander exposure.
Why would anyone grow such a plant?
Sea onion is a striking ornamental with a dramatic flower spike, and its chemistry made it a historic medicine and rat poison — history that should convince owners of chewers to skip it.
More plants checked for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.