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Common houseplants that are poisonous to cats and dogs

Many of the most popular indoor plants can make cats and dogs ill if chewed. You don't have to give up plants; just know which ones to keep out of reach or avoid.

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If your pet has chewed a plant

Contact your vet or an animal poison helpline straight away, especially if you see drooling, vomiting, lethargy or swelling. Take a photo of the plant or bring a piece of it.

Common houseplants known to be harmful

These are widely listed by veterinary sources as toxic to cats, dogs or both. Severity varies from mouth irritation to serious poisoning.

Lilies (true lilies and daylilies): extremely dangerous to cats, even pollen
Sago palm: seriously toxic to dogs and cats
Pothos (devil's ivy)
Philodendron
Dieffenbachia (dumb cane)
Peace lily
Aloe vera
Snake plant
Jade plant
ZZ plant
Monstera
Oleander (outdoor and indoor): very toxic

Safer choices

These are generally listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs, though any plant can upset a sensitive stomach.

Spider plant
Boston fern
Calathea (prayer plants)
Areca palm
Parlour palm
African violet
Peperomia
Most orchids (Phalaenopsis)

Tips for homes with pets

Hang risky plants high, use closed rooms, and check bouquets: lilies in flower arrangements are a common cause of cat poisoning. Give cats safe greenery such as cat grass to chew.

Signs your pet may have eaten something harmful

Symptoms vary by plant, but call your vet if you notice any of these after your pet has been near plants.

Drooling or pawing at the mouth
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Swelling of the mouth or lips
Unusual tiredness or weakness
Not eating
Wobbling, trembling or seizures

Check a plant you have

Not sure what a plant is? FloraLens identifies it from photos and shows its safety notes, with a red warning for plants known to be poisonous. It does not replace a vet.

Quick checklist

Lilies are the top danger for cats
Check bouquets too
Hang risky plants high
Offer cat grass
Call a vet fast if chewed

Questions

Are snake plants toxic to cats?

They are listed as mildly toxic to cats and dogs, usually causing stomach upset.

Is aloe vera safe for dogs?

Aloe is listed as toxic to dogs and cats when eaten.

Which plants are safest?

Spider plants, Boston ferns, calatheas and many palms are commonly listed as pet-safe.

Where can I check a specific plant?

Your vet, the ASPCA plant database, or identify it first with FloraLens and then check.

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