Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs: Common Dangers and Pet-Safe Alternatives
Which houseplants, garden plants and bouquet flowers can poison cats and dogs, how to spot trouble, and what to grow instead.
The plants most likely to seriously poison pets are lilies (deadly to cats), sago palm, oleander, autumn crocus and tulip or other spring bulbs. Many common houseplants, such as pothos and philodendron, cause painful mouth irritation rather than life-threatening illness. If your pet chews a plant you are unsure about, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 and have the plant’s name or a photo ready.
The ASPCA keeps a searchable database of toxic and non-toxic plants for dogs, cats and horses. It is the best place to check a specific plant. This article covers the ones that come up most often and is not a substitute for your veterinarian.
The most dangerous plants
| Plant | Main risk to | What it can do |
|---|---|---|
| True lilies (Easter, tiger, stargazer, Asiatic) and daylilies | Cats | Kidney failure, even from pollen or vase water; dogs usually get only stomach upset |
| Sago palm | Dogs and cats | Vomiting, liver failure, bleeding problems, seizures; the seeds are the most toxic part |
| Oleander | Dogs, cats, horses | Serious heart rhythm problems; vomiting and diarrhea often come first |
| Autumn crocus | Dogs, cats | Severe stomach upset, organ damage and bone marrow problems |
| Tulips, hyacinths, daffodils | Dogs, cats | Stomach upset; bulbs are the most concentrated and can also cause blockages |
| Azaleas and rhododendrons | Dogs, cats | Vomiting, drooling, weakness and possible heart effects |
Why lilies deserve special attention
According to the ASPCA, lilies in the Lilium and Hemerocallis groups can cause kidney failure or death in cats from small exposures, including pollen brushed onto fur and then groomed off. The danger is often a gift bouquet. If you live with a cat, it is simplest to keep these lilies out of the house entirely and let friends and family know.
Not every plant called a “lily” is a true lily. Peace lilies and calla lilies, for example, cause mouth and throat irritation rather than kidney failure. Since names are confusing, call your vet or poison control about any lily exposure in a cat.
Sago palm: a yard and patio risk
Sago palms are popular as potted plants and in warm-climate landscaping. Dogs in particular may chew the seeds or fronds. All parts are toxic, and the main concern is liver damage, which can be fatal. Treat any sago palm chewing as an emergency.
Common houseplants that irritate
Several popular houseplants contain calcium oxalate crystals that cause intense mouth irritation when chewed. They are rarely deadly, but they are uncomfortable and worth avoiding with curious pets:
- Pothos (devil’s ivy)
- Philodendron
- Dieffenbachia (dumb cane)
- Peace lily
- Monstera
- Snake plant and aloe can also cause stomach upset
Typical signs include drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and reluctance to eat.
Pet-safe plants to grow instead
The ASPCA lists these among plants considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. Even safe plants can cause mild stomach upset if a pet eats a lot, so discourage chewing.
| Use | Pet-safe options |
|---|---|
| Houseplants | Spider plant, Boston fern, African violet, Easter cactus, friendship plant, zebra haworthia, hens and chicks |
| Cut flowers | Roses, sunflowers, gerbera daisies, snapdragons, orchids, asters, freesias, zinnias |
| Garden and patio | Petunias, zinnias, sunflowers, snapdragons |
Before buying, look up the exact plant name in the ASPCA database, since common names vary by region and store.
What to do if your pet eats a plant
- Take the plant away and gently remove any pieces from your pet’s mouth if it is safe to do so.
- Identify the plant. Check the nursery tag, take a clear photo, or bring a sample in a bag.
- Call for advice: your vet, an emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (24/7; a consultation fee may apply).
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison control expert tells you to.
- Watch for changes and follow the instructions you receive. Some effects, such as kidney or liver damage, can be delayed.
Emergency warning signs
- Any lily exposure in a cat, even without symptoms
- Any sago palm chewing
- Repeated vomiting or diarrhea
- Weakness, collapse, tremors or seizures
- Irregular or very slow heartbeat, or trouble breathing
- Swelling of the face or throat
- Producing little or no urine
Making your home and yard safer
- Check every plant against the ASPCA list before it comes home.
- Hang plants out of reach or keep them in rooms your pet does not enter. Cats can climb, so shelves are not always enough.
- Plant bulbs where dogs cannot dig, and store unplanted bulbs in a closed container.
- Offer cat grass as a chewing alternative for cats who like greenery.
- Remember seasonal plants. Our holiday pet safety guide covers festive hazards, and the full list of foods toxic to cats is worth knowing too.
Bottom line
Lilies are the top plant danger for cats, and sago palm is the top danger for dogs, but oleander, autumn crocus, bulbs and azaleas are serious too. Check plants in the ASPCA database before bringing them home, choose pet-safe alternatives, and call your vet or poison control quickly if your pet chews something.
FAQ
Is a peace lily as dangerous as an Easter lily for cats?
No. Peace lilies typically cause mouth irritation, while true lilies and daylilies can cause kidney failure. Because names are easy to mix up, call your vet about any lily exposure.
Are succulents safe for pets?
Some are, such as hens and chicks and zebra haworthia, but others, including aloe and jade plant, are listed as toxic. Check each one by name.
Why does my cat eat plants?
Many cats like chewing greenery. Offer cat grass and keep toxic plants out of reach. If chewing is sudden or constant, mention it to your vet.
Is lily vase water dangerous?
Yes, for cats. The ASPCA warns that all parts of true lilies and daylilies are dangerous, and vase water is commonly included in vet warnings.