🚨 If symptoms are present — go to emergency vet NOW. ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (24/7)
Autumn Crocus Toxicity in Dogs
The Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale), also called Meadow Saffron, contains colchicine — an alkaloid that inhibits cell division by disrupting microtubule formation. Unlike the Spring Crocus (Crocus sativus), which causes only mild GI symptoms, Autumn Crocus causes severe, delayed multi-organ toxicity. The entire plant is toxic but the bulb (corm) contains the highest colchicine concentration. This is one of the most dangerous plants a dog can ingest.
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⚡ Immediate Actions
- 1This is a critical emergency even if the dog currently seems well — go to an emergency vet immediately.
- 2Call ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435.
- 3Do not wait for severe symptoms to develop — the delayed onset is what makes this plant so dangerous.
- 4Bring a sample of the plant or a photo to the vet for identification.
- 5Do not induce vomiting without veterinary guidance.
Symptoms & Timeline
Initial phase (0–3 hours)
- Drooling
- Vomiting (may appear to resolve)
- Diarrhea (may be bloody)
- Abdominal pain
Delayed systemic phase (24–72 hours — after apparent recovery)
- Bone marrow suppression (low white blood cells and platelets)
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Liver failure (jaundice, elevated liver enzymes)
- Acute kidney failure
- Respiratory failure
- Multi-organ failure and death
How Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale) Affects Dogs
Colchicine binds tubulin and prevents polymerization into microtubules, halting mitosis in metaphase. This affects all rapidly dividing cells, most critically bone marrow progenitor cells (causing pancytopenia) and GI mucosal cells. The inhibition of mitosis in bone marrow produces neutropenia (susceptibility to infection), thrombocytopenia (uncontrolled bleeding), and anemia. Colchicine also directly damages kidney tubular cells and hepatocytes. There is no specific antidote; treatment is entirely supportive.
What Your Vet Will Do at the Clinic
Step-by-step protocol:
- 1Emesis induction if very recent ingestion and dog is asymptomatic (within 1 hour)
- 2Activated charcoal and multiple-dose charcoal for 24 hours
- 3CBC and chemistry panel at presentation and every 12–24 hours for 72 hours
- 4IV fluid support for kidney protection
- 5Fresh whole blood or platelet-rich plasma for bleeding from thrombocytopenia
- 6Broad-spectrum antibiotics for secondary infections due to neutropenia
- 7Intensive care hospitalization for minimum 72 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell Autumn Crocus from Spring Crocus?
Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale) blooms in fall (August–November) before its leaves appear, and has 6 stamens. Spring Crocus (Crocus species) blooms in spring alongside its leaves and has only 3 stamens. If you are uncertain, treat any crocus ingestion as potentially serious and call ASPCA Poison Control.
My dog ate a crocus bulb in the garden — what do I do?
If in doubt about species, go to an emergency vet immediately. Autumn Crocus bulbs (corms) have the highest colchicine concentration in the plant, and even a small amount is potentially lethal. Do not wait.
🛡️ Emergency vet bills average $1,500–$5,000
Most US dog owners pay out of pocket. Pet insurance can cover 70–90% of unexpected emergency costs.
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