Houseplants toxic to cats and dogs, and some that aren't

Any plant can make a dog or cat vomit or upset its stomach. Plants that are non-toxic, or that cause only a mild stomach upset, aren't expected to be life-threatening. Look a plant up by its name rather than its photo, since a plant can look different from the picture.

Toxic to cats: lilies

True lilies, the Lilium species, are toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure. The Easter lily causes vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy and kidney failure, and can kill a cat. Cats are the only species known to be affected. Lilies are non-toxic to dogs.

Toxic to dogs and cats

The sago palm is the most dangerous of these. Its signs also include bloody stool, yellowing of the skin and eyes, bruising and increased thirst. Pothos, the peace lily and dieffenbachia all contain insoluble calcium oxalates, which irritate and swell the mouth, tongue and lips. Dieffenbachia can also cause intense burning in the mouth.

Non-toxic to dogs and cats

These are non-toxic to both:

• Spider plant
• Boston fern
• Parlor palm
• African violet
• Prayer plant, a Calathea

The plants on this page are common houseplants, not every plant.

If a pet eats a plant

If you think your pet is ill or has eaten something poisonous, call your veterinarian or the 24-hour ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline at (888) 426-4435. A consultation fee may apply. Have the plant's name ready, or the plant itself.

An annotated example

What to do next

List every houseplant in the house by name, and look each one up in the ASPCA's plant list before a new plant comes home. Save the Poison Control number in your phone next to your vet's.