Is it toxic to my cat or dog?

Plants, foods, medicines and household products, each checked against at least two veterinary poison sources. If your pet has already eaten something, do not wait for signs.

Plants

African violetCats: Not listed as toxicDogs: Not listed as toxic

Saintpaulia spp. (Streptocarpus)

Also called Saintpaulia.

Cats: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline and Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine). Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to dogs by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline and Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine). Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Aloe veraCats: Toxic: usually moderateDogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Also called Aloe, Barbados aloe, True aloe and Medicinal aloe.

Cats: Toxic: usually moderate

Which parts
The latex just under the leaf skin.
Signs
Vomiting, diarrhoea (sometimes sudden and severe) and low energy.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Which parts
The latex just under the leaf skin.
Signs
Vomiting, diarrhoea (sometimes sudden and severe) and low energy.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Areca palmCats: Not listed as toxicDogs: Not listed as toxic

Dypsis lutescens (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens)

Also called Butterfly palm, Golden cane palm, Bamboo palm and Yellow palm.

Cats: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline and Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine). Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to dogs by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline and Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine). Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Autumn crocus (meadow saffron)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Colchicum autumnale

Also called Meadow saffron, Naked lady, Fall crocus and Colchicum.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, fresh or dried; the bulb (corm) most of all.
Signs
Bloody vomiting, diarrhoea, shock, organ damage and bone marrow damage. It can be fatal.
How soon
Within hours.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, fresh or dried; the bulb (corm) most of all.
Signs
Bloody vomiting, diarrhoea, shock, organ damage and bone marrow damage. It can be fatal.
How soon
Within hours.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Azalea and rhododendronCats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Rhododendron spp.

Also called Azalea, Rhododendron and Rosebay.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, including flowers, nectar and pollen.
Signs
Vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea, weakness, low blood pressure, an abnormal heartbeat, fits and collapse. A few leaves can be enough. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually within 1 to 4 hours, sometimes up to 12 hours.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, including flowers, nectar and pollen.
Signs
Vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea, weakness, low blood pressure, an abnormal heartbeat, fits and collapse. A few leaves can be enough. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually within 1 to 4 hours, sometimes up to 12 hours.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Boston fernCats: Not listed as toxicDogs: Not listed as toxic

Nephrolepis exaltata

Also called Sword fern and Nephrolepis.

Cats: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline and Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine). Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to dogs by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline and Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine). Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Calathea (prayer plant family)Cats: Not listed as toxicDogs: Not listed as toxic

Calathea spp. (Goeppertia spp.)

Also called Prayer plant, Rattlesnake plant, Peacock plant, Zebra plant and Goeppertia.

Cats: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine) and PDSA. Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
  3. PDSA, read

Dogs: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to dogs by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine) and PDSA. Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
  3. PDSA, read
Calla lily (arum lily)Cats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Zantedeschia aethiopica

Also called Arum lily, Calla, Pig lily, White arum and Trumpet lily.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mouth pain and burning, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Rarely the throat swells enough to make breathing hard. It is not a true lily and does not damage the kidneys.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. US Food and Drug Administration, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mouth pain and burning, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Rarely the throat swells enough to make breathing hard.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. US Food and Drug Administration, read
Christmas cactusCats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Schlumbergera spp.

Also called Easter cactus, Thanksgiving cactus, Holiday cactus and Schlumbergera.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Leaves.
Signs
Vomiting and diarrhoea are possible. Two sources list it as non-toxic; Pet Poison Helpline says it can cause these signs in dogs and cats.
How soon

Sources disagree: the ASPCA and the UK VPIS list it as non-toxic, while Pet Poison Helpline says it can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. We show the toxic answer.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
  3. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  4. Pet Poison Helpline, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Leaves.
Signs
Vomiting and diarrhoea are possible. Two sources list it as non-toxic; Pet Poison Helpline says it can cause these signs in dogs and cats.
How soon

Sources disagree: the ASPCA and the UK VPIS list it as non-toxic, while Pet Poison Helpline says it can cause vomiting and diarrhoea. We show the toxic answer.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
  3. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  4. Pet Poison Helpline, read
ChrysanthemumCats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Chrysanthemum spp.

Also called Mum, Mums and Garden mum.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Signs
Vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, a wobbly walk and skin irritation.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Signs
Vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, a wobbly walk and skin irritation.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
Daffodil (narcissus)Cats: Toxic: usually moderateDogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Narcissus spp.

Also called Narcissus, Jonquil, Paperwhite and Daffodil bulbs.

Cats: Toxic: usually moderate

Which parts
Whole plant; the bulb is the most toxic part.
Signs
Vomiting (sometimes severe), drooling, diarrhoea, belly pain and low energy. Large amounts, especially bulbs, can cause low blood pressure, tremors, fits and heart rhythm problems.
How soon
Usually within 2 hours.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Which parts
Whole plant; the bulb is the most toxic part.
Signs
Vomiting (sometimes severe), drooling, diarrhoea, belly pain and low energy. Large amounts, especially bulbs, can cause low blood pressure, tremors, fits and heart rhythm problems.
How soon
Usually within 2 hours.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Dieffenbachia (dumb cane)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Dieffenbachia spp.

Also called Dumb cane, Dumbcane, Tropic snow and Exotica.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, including the sap.
Signs
Intense mouth pain and burning, drooling, head shaking, vomiting and trouble breathing from throat swelling. Deaths are uncommon but reported.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  4. International Cat Care, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, including the sap.
Signs
Intense mouth pain and burning, drooling, head shaking, vomiting and trouble breathing from throat swelling. Deaths are uncommon but reported.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
English ivyCats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Hedera helix

Also called Ivy, Common ivy, Needlepoint ivy, Glacier ivy and Sweetheart ivy.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Leaves and berries; the leaves more than the berries.
Signs
Drooling, vomiting, belly pain and diarrhoea.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Leaves and berries; the leaves more than the berries.
Signs
Drooling, vomiting, belly pain and diarrhoea.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
HydrangeaCats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Hydrangea spp.

Also called Hortensia, Mophead and Lacecap.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, especially when chewed or crushed.
Signs
Usually vomiting, diarrhoea and low energy. Rarely, cyanide poisoning causes gasping, collapse and fits, and can be fatal.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, especially when chewed or crushed.
Signs
Usually vomiting, diarrhoea and low energy. Rarely, cyanide poisoning causes gasping, collapse and fits, and can be fatal.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Jade plantCats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Crassula ovata (Crassula argentea)

Also called Money plant, Jade tree, Baby jade, Friendship tree and Lucky plant.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Signs
Usually mild: vomiting, diarrhoea, not eating, low energy and a wobbly walk. One poison line lists jade plant as low risk; the others list it as toxic.
How soon

Sources disagree: the ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline list it as toxic, while the UK VPIS includes it on its list of plants for homes with pets. We show the toxic answer.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Signs
Usually mild: vomiting, diarrhoea, not eating, low energy and a wobbly walk. One poison line lists jade plant as low risk; the others list it as toxic.
How soon

Sources disagree: the ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline list it as toxic, while the UK VPIS includes it on its list of plants for homes with pets. We show the toxic answer.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
KalanchoeCats: Toxic: usually moderateDogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Kalanchoe spp.

Also called Flaming Katy, Mother of millions, Mother of thousands, Chandelier plant and Devil's backbone.

Cats: Toxic: usually moderate

Which parts
Leaves.
Signs
Usually vomiting and diarrhoea. Larger amounts can change the heart rate and rhythm and cause weakness and collapse. One poison line lists flaming Katy as low risk; the others list kalanchoe as toxic.
How soon

Sources disagree: the ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline list it as toxic, while the UK VPIS includes it on its list of plants for homes with pets. We show the toxic answer.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Which parts
Leaves.
Signs
Usually vomiting and diarrhoea. Larger amounts can change the heart rate and rhythm and cause weakness and collapse. One poison line lists flaming Katy as low risk; the others list kalanchoe as toxic.
How soon

Sources disagree: the ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline list it as toxic, while the UK VPIS includes it on its list of plants for homes with pets. We show the toxic answer.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Lilies (true lilies and daylilies)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Lilium spp., Hemerocallis spp.

Also called Easter lily, Tiger lily, Asiatic lily, Oriental lily, Stargazer lily and Daylily.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part: leaves, flowers, stem and pollen, and the water in the vase.
Signs
Vomiting, drooling, not eating and low energy, then kidney failure. Licking pollen off the fur is enough. Without fast treatment it is often fatal.
How soon
First signs within a few hours; kidney failure within 1 to 3 days.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. International Cat Care, read
  4. US Food and Drug Administration, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Signs
At most a minor stomach upset; kidney failure is not reported in dogs. The sources disagree on whether lilies are toxic to dogs at all.
How soon

Sources disagree: the ASPCA plant list says non-toxic to dogs, while an ASPCA article and the US FDA report stomach upset. We show the toxic answer.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  3. US Food and Drug Administration, read
Lily of the valleyCats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Convallaria majalis

Also called Convallaria, May bells and Conval lily.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, and the water cut flowers stood in.
Signs
Vomiting, not eating, an irregular or slow heartbeat, low blood pressure, weakness, confusion and fits. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually within the first 2 hours.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. US Food and Drug Administration, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, and the water cut flowers stood in.
Signs
Vomiting, not eating, an irregular or slow heartbeat, low blood pressure, weakness, confusion and fits. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually within the first 2 hours.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)Cats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Monstera deliciosa

Also called Swiss cheese plant, Split-leaf philodendron, Fruit salad plant and Ceriman.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mouth pain and burning, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Rarely the throat swells enough to make breathing hard.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mouth pain and burning, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Rarely the throat swells enough to make breathing hard.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
OleanderCats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Nerium oleander

Also called Rose bay, Rose laurel and Nerium.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part of the plant.
Signs
Drooling, vomiting, belly pain, diarrhoea, an irregular or slow heartbeat, weakness and collapse. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually within the first 2 hours; signs can last 4 to 5 days.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part of the plant.
Signs
Drooling, vomiting, belly pain, diarrhoea, an irregular or slow heartbeat, weakness and collapse. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually within the first 2 hours; signs can last 4 to 5 days.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Parlour palmCats: Not listed as toxicDogs: Not listed as toxic

Chamaedorea elegans

Also called Parlor palm, Good luck palm and Neanthe bella palm.

Cats: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline and Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine). Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Not listed as toxic

Not listed as toxic to dogs by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline and Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine). Any plant can upset the stomach if a lot is eaten.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Peace lilyCats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Spathiphyllum spp.

Also called Spathiphyllum, Mauna Loa peace lily and White sails.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mouth pain and burning, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Rarely the throat swells enough to make breathing hard. It is not a true lily and does not damage the kidneys.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. US Food and Drug Administration, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mouth pain and burning, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Rarely the throat swells enough to make breathing hard.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. US Food and Drug Administration, read
PhilodendronCats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Philodendron spp.

Also called Heartleaf philodendron, Sweetheart plant, Horsehead philodendron and Fiddle-leaf philodendron.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mostly mouth pain, drooling, vomiting and trouble swallowing. One veterinary reference also lists kidney failure, and seizures in cats.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mostly mouth pain, drooling, vomiting and trouble swallowing. One veterinary reference also lists kidney failure, and seizures in cats.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
PoinsettiaCats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Euphorbia pulcherrima

Also called Christmas star, Christmas flower, Lobster flower and Flame leaf flower.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The milky sap in leaves and stems.
Signs
Drooling, lip licking, vomiting and sometimes diarrhoea. The sap can irritate skin and eyes. Usually mild.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The milky sap in leaves and stems.
Signs
Drooling, lip licking, vomiting and sometimes diarrhoea. The sap can irritate skin and eyes. Usually mild.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Pothos (devil's ivy)Cats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Epipremnum aureum

Also called Golden pothos, Devil's ivy, Marble queen and Taro vine.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mouth pain and burning, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Rarely the throat swells enough to make breathing hard.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
The whole plant; chewing releases sharp crystals.
Signs
Mouth pain and burning, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and trouble swallowing. Rarely the throat swells enough to make breathing hard.
How soon
Straight away on chewing.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Sago palm (cycads)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Cycas revoluta, Zamia spp.

Also called Sago palm, King sago, Cycad, Coontie palm and Cardboard palm.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, the seeds (nuts) most of all.
Signs
Vomiting and diarrhoea that may be bloody, weakness, stumbling, seizures, bruising and liver failure. It can be fatal.
How soon
Often within 4 hours; liver failure can follow in 2 to 3 days.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Every part, the seeds (nuts) most of all.
Signs
Vomiting and diarrhoea that may be bloody, weakness, stumbling, seizures, bruising and liver failure. It can be fatal.
How soon
Often within 4 hours; liver failure can follow in 2 to 3 days.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Snake plant (mother-in-law's tongue)Cats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Sansevieria trifasciata (Dracaena trifasciata)

Also called Mother-in-law's tongue, Sansevieria, Good luck plant and Golden bird's nest.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Leaves and stems.
Signs
Drooling, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. In cats, wide pupils and a wobbly walk have also been reported.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Leaves and stems.
Signs
Drooling, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Spider plantCats: Toxic: usually mildDogs: Toxic: usually mild

Chlorophytum comosum

Also called Ribbon plant, Airplane plant, Spider ivy and St. Bernard's lily.

Cats: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Leaves and the small plantlets.
Signs
Vomiting, drooling, retching and a short loss of appetite. Most sources list it as non-toxic; one veterinary reference reports these signs in cats.
How soon
Within hours.

Sources disagree: the ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline and the UK VPIS list it as non-toxic, while the MSD Veterinary Manual reports vomiting and retching, mainly in cats. We show the toxic answer.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
  4. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually mild

Which parts
Leaves and the small plantlets.
Signs
Vomiting, drooling or retching are possible. Most sources list it as non-toxic; one veterinary reference lists it as poisonous to pets, and PDSA says too much will make a pet unwell.
How soon

Sources disagree: the ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline and the UK VPIS list it as non-toxic, while the MSD Veterinary Manual lists it as a poisonous houseplant and PDSA says too much will make a pet unwell. We show the toxic answer.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
  4. PDSA, read
  5. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
TulipCats: Toxic: usually moderateDogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Tulipa spp.

Also called Tulips and Tulip bulbs.

Cats: Toxic: usually moderate

Which parts
Whole plant; the bulb is the most toxic part.
Signs
Vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea and low energy. Leaves and flowers usually cause only mild sickness; bulbs cause more.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read

Dogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Which parts
Whole plant; the bulb is the most toxic part.
Signs
Vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea and low energy. Leaves and flowers usually cause only mild sickness; bulbs cause more.
How soon

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. PDSA, read

Foods

Alcohol (ethanol)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Also called Beer, Wine, Spirits, Liqueur chocolates, Raw bread dough and Hand sanitiser.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Drinks, liqueur-filled sweets, raw yeast dough and some household products.
Signs
Vomiting, a wobbly walk, drowsiness, trouble breathing and tremors; severe cases bring low body temperature, low blood sugar, fits, coma and death. Raw yeast dough makes alcohol in the stomach.
How soon
Usually within 30 to 60 minutes.

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Drinks, liqueur-filled sweets, raw yeast dough and some household products.
Signs
Vomiting, a wobbly walk, drowsiness, trouble breathing and tremors; severe cases bring low body temperature, low blood sugar, fits, coma and death. Raw yeast dough makes alcohol in the stomach.
How soon
Usually within 30 to 60 minutes.

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
Caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Also called Coffee, Coffee grounds, Coffee beans, Tea bags, Energy drinks, Caffeine pills and Cola.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Coffee, grounds and beans, tea and tea bags, energy drinks, soda and caffeine tablets.
Signs
Restlessness and hyperactivity, vomiting, a racing or irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, tremors and fits. Coffee grounds, beans, tea bags and caffeine pills are the biggest risk.
How soon

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  3. PDSA, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Coffee, grounds and beans, tea and tea bags, energy drinks, soda and caffeine tablets.
Signs
Restlessness and hyperactivity, vomiting, a racing or irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, tremors and fits. Coffee grounds, beans, tea bags and caffeine pills are the biggest risk.
How soon

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  3. PDSA, read
Chocolate and cocoaCats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Also called Dark chocolate, Milk chocolate, Cocoa powder, Baking chocolate, Brownies and Cocoa mulch.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Cocoa solids; dark chocolate and cocoa powder carry the most.
Signs
Vomiting, diarrhoea, thirst, restlessness and hyperactivity, a racing or irregular heartbeat, tremors and fits. Darker chocolate and cocoa powder are the most dangerous. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually within 2 to 12 hours; signs can last up to 3 days.

Sources

  1. PDSA, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Cocoa solids; dark chocolate and cocoa powder carry the most.
Signs
Vomiting, diarrhoea, thirst, restlessness and hyperactivity, a racing or irregular heartbeat, tremors and fits. Darker chocolate and cocoa powder are the most dangerous. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually within 2 to 12 hours; signs can last up to 3 days.

Sources

  1. PDSA, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  4. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currantsCats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Vitis spp.

Also called Grapes, Raisins, Sultanas, Currants, Fruit cake, Hot cross buns and Mince pies.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
The fruit, fresh or dried, and foods made with it.
Signs
Vomiting, belly pain and diarrhoea, then kidney injury. Almost all reports are in dogs, but kidney failure has been reported in a cat.
How soon

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
The fruit, fresh or dried, and foods made with it.
Signs
Vomiting or diarrhoea, then low energy, belly pain, thirst and kidney failure. Even a few grapes or raisins can harm a small dog. It can be fatal.
How soon
Stomach signs within 6 to 12 hours; kidney failure within 1 to 3 days.

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. PDSA, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  4. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Macadamia nutsCats: No verdictDogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Macadamia integrifolia, Macadamia tetraphylla

Also called Macadamia, Queensland nut and Australian nut.

Cats: No verdict

We could not find two veterinary sources about cats and macadamia nuts. If your cat has eaten some, call your vet or a pet poison line.

Dogs: Toxic: usually moderate

Which parts
The nuts, including in biscuits and chocolate.
Signs
Weakness (mostly in the back legs), vomiting, a wobbly walk, tremors and fever. Most dogs recover within 1 to 3 days.
How soon
Within 12 hours.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  4. PDSA, read
Onion, garlic, leeks and chivesCats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Allium spp.

Also called Onion, Garlic, Leek, Chives, Shallot, Spring onion, Onion powder and Garlic powder.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Onion, garlic, leeks, chives and shallots, raw, cooked, dried or powdered, including in sauces and baby food.
Signs
Vomiting, diarrhoea and not eating, then anaemia: pale gums, weakness, fast breathing and red-brown urine. Death is rare.
How soon
Stomach signs usually within 6 to 24 hours, sometimes a few days; anaemia within 1 to 5 days.

Sources

  1. PDSA, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  4. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Onion, garlic, leeks, chives and shallots, raw, cooked, dried or powdered, including in sauces and baby food.
Signs
Vomiting, diarrhoea and not eating, then anaemia: pale gums, weakness, fast breathing and red-brown urine. Death is rare.
How soon
Signs can start within 24 hours but often take a few days; anaemia within 1 to 5 days.

Sources

  1. PDSA, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Xylitol (birch sugar)Cats: No verdictDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Also called Birch sugar, E967, Sugar-free gum, Sugar-free sweets and Sugar-free peanut butter.

Cats: No verdict

We could not find two veterinary sources about cats and xylitol (birch sugar). If your cat has eaten some, call your vet or a pet poison line.

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Any product sweetened with it: gum, mints, sweets, baking, some peanut butters and toothpastes.
Signs
Vomiting, weakness, a wobbly walk, collapse and fits from very low blood sugar, then liver failure. One or two pieces of gum can affect a small dog.
How soon
Low blood sugar can start within 10 to 60 minutes; liver damage within 1 to 2 days.

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
  4. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, read

Medicines

Ibuprofen and other human anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Also called Ibuprofen, Advil, Nurofen, Motrin, Naproxen, Aleve, Diclofenac, Aspirin and NSAID.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Tablets, capsules, liquids and gels, including gel licked off skin.
Signs
Vomiting (may be bloody), black tarry stool, not eating, belly pain, stomach ulcers, drinking and peeing more, then kidney failure. Large doses cause fits. It can be fatal.
How soon
From a few hours to a few days, depending on the dose.

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. PDSA, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Tablets, capsules, liquids and gels, including gel licked off skin.
Signs
Vomiting (may be bloody), black tarry stool, not eating, belly pain, stomach ulcers, drinking and peeing more, then kidney failure. Large doses cause fits. It can be fatal.
How soon
From a few hours to a few days, depending on the dose.

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. PDSA, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Paracetamol (acetaminophen)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Also called Acetaminophen, Tylenol, Panadol, Calpol, Cold and flu remedies and APAP.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Any amount; even part of one tablet. Also cold and flu remedies that contain it.
Signs
Brown or muddy gums, fast breathing, a swollen face or paws, weakness, vomiting and liver damage. It is often fatal in cats. Never give it to a cat.
How soon
Usually within 4 hours, almost always within 24 hours.

Sources

  1. International Cat Care, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Larger doses, such as a dog finding a packet.
Signs
Brown gums, fast breathing, a swollen face or paws, vomiting, belly pain and liver damage a few days later.
How soon
Blood changes within hours; liver damage after several days.

Sources

  1. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
Permethrin dog flea spot-on (on cats)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: No verdict

Also called Permethrin, Dog flea treatment, Spot-on, Pyrethroid and Flea drops.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Dog spot-ons, sprays, shampoos and collars with permethrin; also grooming it off a treated dog.
Signs
Drooling, twitching, tremors, fits, agitation and trouble breathing. Even a small amount of a dog product can make a cat seriously ill. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually within a few hours, sometimes up to 36 hours.

Sources

  1. International Cat Care, read
  2. PDSA, read
  3. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  4. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: No verdict

We could not find two veterinary sources about dogs and permethrin dog flea spot-on (on cats). If your dog has eaten some, call your vet or a pet poison line.

Household products

Antifreeze (ethylene glycol)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Also called Antifreeze, Coolant, Radiator fluid, Screen wash, De-icer and Ethylene glycol.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Antifreeze and coolant, screen wash, de-icers and some brake fluids; even a lick from a puddle or fur.
Signs
At first looks like drunkenness: vomiting, a wobbly walk, thirst. Kidney failure follows. A teaspoon can kill a cat; treatment works only if it starts very early.
How soon
Signs within 30 minutes to 12 hours; kidney failure within 12 to 24 hours.

Sources

  1. PDSA, read
  2. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Antifreeze and coolant, screen wash, de-icers and some brake fluids; even a lick from a puddle or fur.
Signs
At first looks like drunkenness: vomiting, a wobbly walk, thirst. A dog may seem to recover, then kidney failure follows. Treatment works only if it starts early.
How soon
Signs within hours; kidney failure within 36 to 72 hours.

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. PDSA, read
Essential oils (tea tree oil)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree)

Also called Tea tree oil, Melaleuca oil, Reed diffusers, Oil diffusers, Eucalyptus oil and Peppermint oil.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Neat or concentrated oils on skin or fur, licked or swallowed; diffusers.
Signs
Drooling, vomiting, a wobbly walk, weakness, tremors, low body temperature, skin burns, breathing trouble and liver failure. A few drops of concentrated oil on the skin can be enough. It can be fatal.
How soon

Sources

  1. PDSA, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  4. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Neat or concentrated oils on skin or fur, licked or swallowed.
Signs
Drooling, vomiting, a wobbly walk, weakness, tremors, low body temperature and skin irritation. Concentrated oil is the risk; it can be fatal.
How soon

Sources

  1. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Metaldehyde slug and snail pelletsCats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Also called Slug pellets, Snail bait, Slug bait and Molluscicide.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Pellets, granules and liquids.
Signs
Tremors and fits that can last for hours, drooling, vomiting, a racing heart, very high temperature and fast breathing. It can be fatal.
How soon
Often within a few hours.

Sources

  1. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. International Cat Care, read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Pellets, granules and liquids.
Signs
Tremors and fits that can last for hours, drooling, vomiting, a racing heart, very high temperature and fast breathing. It can be fatal.
How soon
Often within 30 minutes to a few hours.

Sources

  1. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  2. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read
Rat and mouse poison (anticoagulant type)Cats: Toxic: can be severeDogs: Toxic: can be severe

Also called Rat poison, Mouse poison, Rat bait, Brodifacoum, Bromadiolone, Difenacoum and Warfarin.

Cats: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Baits and, most often for cats, poisoned rats or mice.
Signs
Bleeding anywhere, often hidden inside: weakness, pale gums, breathing trouble, coughing, bruising, nosebleeds and blood in urine or stool. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually 3 to 5 days after eating it, sometimes longer.

Sources

  1. International Cat Care, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. Pet Poison Helpline, read
  4. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

Dogs: Toxic: can be severe

Which parts
Baits (blocks, pellets, grain, paste) and poisoned rats or mice.
Signs
Bleeding anywhere, often hidden inside: weakness, pale gums, breathing trouble, coughing, bruising, nosebleeds and blood in urine or stool. It can be fatal.
How soon
Usually 3 to 5 days after eating it, sometimes longer.

Sources

  1. PDSA, read
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual, read
  3. Veterinary Poisons Information Service (Animal PoisonLine), read

What this can't tell you

  • Whether the amount your pet ate will make it ill. We never give a safe amount; call your vet or a poison line with what, how much and when.
  • Anything not on this page. Absence here does not mean a plant or product is harmless. The ZZ plant, for example, is not covered: no veterinary source we read lists it.
  • Which plant you have. If you are not sure of its name, take it or a photo to your vet.
  • Changes after , the day these sources were read. Every entry is checked again within six months.