🌿 Plants
Toxic Plants
Complete list of common toxic houseplants and outdoor plants
African Blue Lily
Agapanthus orientalis or Agapanthus africanus
Immediate intense pain and local irritation to mucous membranes · Excess salivation · Swollen tongue and pharynx (throat)
Allamanda
Allamanda cathartica
Abdominal discomfort (pain) · Diarrhea · Dehydration
Aloe Vera
Aloe barbadensis or Aloe spp.
Vomiting · Diarrhea · Lethargy (Depression)
Amaryllis
Hippeastrum spp.
Vomiting · Diarrhea · Excessive Drooling (Hypersalivation)
Angel's Trumpets
Brugmansia spp.
Behavioral changes and Disorientation · Dilated Pupils (Mydriasis) · Hyperthermia
Apricot (seeds)
Prunus spp.
Respiratory Distress (Difficulty Breathing, Panting, Tachypnea, Hyperventilation) · Bright Red Gums/Mucous Membranes · Dilated Pupils (Mydriasis)
Areca Palm
Dypsis lutescens
The Areca Palm is a graceful, feathery palm that brings a tropical feel to any space. It is non-toxic to cats and also acts as a natural air humidifier. Cats may be tempted to chew on the fronds, but they are perfectly safe.
Arrowhead Plant
Syngonium spp.
Oral Irritation (intense burning sensation, pain) · Excessive Drooling (Ptyalism) · Swelling of the tongue, lips, and pharynx
Asparagus Fern
Asparagus densiflorus
Skin Irritation (Allergic Dermatitis) · Vomiting · Abdominal Pain
Autumn Crocus
Colchicum autumnale
Severe Vomiting (often bloody), Diarrhea (often bloody), Abdominal Pain, Drooling, and Difficulty Swallowing · Respiratory Distress (Abnormal breathing patterns, difficulty breathing) · Liver Damage (Hepatotoxicity) and Kidney Failure (Renal Failure)
Azalea
Rhododendron spp.
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Hypersalivation (Drooling), and Anorexia (Refusal to eat) · Arrhythmias (irregular heart rate), Bradycardia (slow heart rate), and Hypotension (low blood pressure) · Weakness, Tremors, Seizures, Depression, and Ataxia (loss of coordination)
Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Basil is a fragrant herb that is completely safe for cats. While most cats won't show interest in eating it, some may enjoy a nibble. It's a great dual-purpose plant for your kitchen — delicious in cooking and safe for feline friends.
Begonia
Begonia spp.
Intense burning, redness, and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips; occasionally oral sores · Hypersalivation (Excessive salivation) · Vomiting
Bell Pepper / Chili Pepper / Ornamental Pepper
Capsicum annuum
Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Hypersalivation (Drooling) · Abdominal Pain (Colic) · Burning sensation, Coughing, Watery Eyes
Bird of Paradise
Strelitzia reginae
Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea · Labored Breathing (Respiratory Distress) · Eye Discharge
Bird’s Nest Anthurium
Anthurium hookeri
Intense burning sensation and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips · Drooling · Swelling of the lips, tongue, and pharynx (throat)
Bittersweet
Celastrus scandens
Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Hypersalivation (Drooling) · Drowsiness, Depression, Confusion, and Weakness · Dilated Pupils (Mydriasis)
Black Velvet Alocasia
Alocasia reginula
Severe oral irritation; intense burning of the mouth, tongue, and throat · Drooling · Vomiting
Blood Lily
Scadoxus spp.
Vomiting · Salivation · Diarrhea
Bluebells
Hyacinthoides non-scripta
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Drooling, and Stomach Pain · Reduced Heart Rate (Bradycardia) · Trembling and Lethargy
Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata
Boston Ferns are lush, feathery plants that are perfectly safe for cats. They love humidity and indirect light, making them ideal bathroom plants. Their dangling fronds may tempt cats to play, but the plant is non-toxic.
Caladium / Elephant’s Ear
Caladium spp. or Alocasia spp.
Intense burning sensation and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips · Hypersalivation (Ptyalism) · Edema (Swelling) of the tongue, lips, and pharynx
Calathea
Calathea spp.
Calatheas are stunning tropical plants known for their intricately patterned leaves that fold up at night like praying hands. They are completely non-toxic to cats and thrive in indirect light with regular watering.
Calla Lily
Zantedeschia aethiopica or Zantedeschia spp.
Intense burning sensation, pain, and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips · Hypersalivation (Drooling) · Vomiting and Anorexia (Decreased appetite)
Cannabis / Marijuana
Cannabis sativa
Ataxia (wobbly, uncoordinated movements) and Disorientation · Prolonged Depression (Sleepiness/Lethargy) or Hyperexcitability · Mydriasis (Dilated Pupils)
Cardboard Palm
Zamia furfuracea
Vomiting, Diarrhea (often bloody), and Hemorrhagic Gastritis · Icterus (Jaundice), Hepatic Necrosis, and Liver Failure · Ataxia (wobbly gait), Tremors, Seizures, Paralysis, and Coma
Carnation
Dianthus caryophyllus
Vomiting and Diarrhea · Dermatological symptoms (Skin irritation)
Cast Iron Plant
Aspidistra elatior
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is nearly indestructible. It thrives in low light and is completely safe for cats. Its sturdy, dark green leaves add an elegant touch to any room.
Castor Bean
Ricinus communis
Vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody), abdominal pain, and loss of appetite · Tremors and seizures · Dehydration
Cat Grass (wheat grass)
Triticum aestivum
Cat Grass (Wheatgrass) is the ultimate "safe" plant specifically grown for cats to eat. It aids digestion, provides fiber, and satisfies cats' natural urge to chew on greens. Easy to grow from seed in just 7-10 days. It should be noted that if a cat eats a large amount of wheat grass, the cat may still vomit.
Century Plant
Agave americana
Oral Mucosal Irritation (pain and irritation of the mouth) · Edema (Swelling) · Dermal Irritation (Skin irritation/Dermatitis)
Chamomile
Matricaria chamomilla
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Cherry / Black Cherry / Chokecherry
Prunus serotina
Tachypnea (rapid breathing), dyspnea (difficulty breathing), or panting · Bright red gums (mucous membranes) and cherry-red blood coloring · Seizures, tremors, dilated pupils, incoordination, and sudden collapse
Cherry Laurel
Prunus laurocerasus
Tachypnea (rapid breathing), dyspnea (difficulty breathing), or respiratory paralysis · Brick red" gums and cherry-red blood · Tremors, seizures, dilated pupils, incoordination (ataxia), and sudden collapse
Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema modestum
Intense burning, pain, and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips · Drooling or excessive salivation (Ptyalism) · Swelling of the lips, tongue, and oral cavity
Chives
Allium schoenoprasum
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite (anorexia) · Lethargy, weakness, stumbling, and collapse · Pale, white, or yellow (jaundiced) gums
Chocolate Mint
Mentha x piperita 'Chocolate'
Vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea · Weakness, lethargy, uncoordinated gait (stumbling), and depression · Difficulty breathing, coughing, or sneezing
Christmas Cactus
Schlumbergera spp.
Vomiting and Diarrhea (Gastrointestinal Irritation)
Christmas Rose
Helleborus niger
Excessive drooling · Persistent vomiting and diarrhea · Changes in heart rate and rhythm (Arrhythmias)
Chrysanthemum / Mums
Chrysanthemum morifolium
Vomiting · Diarrhea · Incoordination (wobbly gait or stumbling)
Cinnamon
Cinnamomum verum
Liver failure · Soreness, redness, or chemical burns · Tremors, shaking, ataxia (walking as if drunk), and seizures
Citrus
Citrus spp.
Vomiting and diarrhea (Gastrointestinal irritation) · CNS Depression (Lethargy, dullness, weakness) · Tremors, shaking, and ataxia (walking as if drunk)
Clove
Syzygium aromaticum
Liver failure (Serious organ damage) · Tremors, shaking, and ataxia (walking as if drunk) · Difficulty breathing (Dyspnea) or breathing with the mouth open
Cobra Lily
Darlingtonia californica
Mild Gastrointestinal Upset
Common Garden Mint
Mentha spp.
Vomiting and Diarrhea · Nausea and Hypersalivation (Drooling) · Lethargy and General Weakness
Coontie Palm
Zamia pumila
Persistent vomiting, diarrhea (often bloody or dark/tarry), anorexia, and abdominal pain · Jaundice (icterus), abdominal swelling (ascites), and liver necrosis · Ataxia (wobbly gait), tremors, seizures, depression, and muscular paralysis
Corn Plant
Dracaena fragrans
Vomiting (Hematemesis) · Dilated Pupils (Mydriasis) · Drooling (Hypersalivation)
Corsican Mint
Mentha requienii
Vomiting · Lethargy (General Weakness) · Diarrhea
Crocus
Crocus vernus
Vomiting and Diarrhea (General gastrointestinal upset) · Bloody Vomiting and Diarrhea; Oral Irritation · Liver damage (Hepatic necrosis) and Kidney failure
Croton
Codiaeum variegatum
Mouth irritation (burning sensation in mouth, tongue, and lips) · Drooling (Hypersalivation) · Vomiting
Curly Dock / Sorrel
Rumex spp.
Vomiting and Loss of Appetite (Inappetence) · Tremors, Twitching, and Seizures (Tetany) · Kidney Failure (Acute Renal Failure)
Cycad
Cycas spp. or Zamia spp.
Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Abdominal Pain · Acute Liver Failure, Jaundice (Icterus) · Seizures, Tremors, and Ataxia (Wobbly Gait)
Cyclamen
Cyclamen spp.
Vomiting · Drooling · Cardiac Arrhythmias
Daffodil
Narcissus spp.
Vomiting · Cardiac Arrhythmias · Respiratory Depression
Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata
Gastrointestinal Upset · Dermatitis
Daylily
Hemerocallis spp.
Vomiting · Acute Kidney Failure · Lethargy
Desert Rose
Adenium obesum
Vomiting · Cardiac Arrhythmias · Hyperkalemia
Dieffenbachia / Dumb Cane
Dieffenbachia spp.
Intense burning, irritation, and inflammation of the mouth, tongue, lips, and throat · Excessive Drooling or Ptyalism · Difficulty Breathing (Dyspnea) and Swelling of the Tongue/Throat (Edema)
Dracaena
Dracaena spp.
Vomiting (occasionally with blood/hematemesis) and Diarrhea · Dilated Pupils · Drooling / Ptyalism
Eggplant
Solanum melongena
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or belly pain · Low energy, weakness, or wobbliness · Tremors, seizures, slow heart rate, or trouble breathing
Elderberry
Sambucus spp. including Sambucus nigra and Sambucus racemosa
Vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, or drooling · Low energy, weakness, or belly discomfort · Fast breathing, tremors, seizures, or collapse
English Ivy
Hedera spp.
Vomiting, diarrhea, or belly pain · Drooling or mouth irritation · Skin redness or itchiness after contact
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus spp.
Drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea · Low energy, weakness, unsteady walking, tremors, or seizures · Coughing, wheezing, or trouble breathing
Fetterbush / Staggerbush
Lyonia spp.
Drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea · Weakness, depression, or wobbliness · Low blood pressure, slow heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, or collapse
Ficus / Weeping Fig
Ficus spp.
Contact Dermatitis (Skin redness, irritation, or swelling) · Vomiting and Diarrhea · Excessive Drooling (Hypersalivation) and Oral Pain
Ficus Audrey
Ficus benghalensis
Mild Oral Irritation (burning sensation in mouth/tongue) · Drooling / Hypersalivation · Vomiting
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Ficus lyrata
Oral Irritation (Pain and burning sensation in the mouth, tongue, and lips) · Drooling / Hypersalivation · Vomiting
Fire Lily
Clivia miniata
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or belly pain · Low energy, weakness, tremors, or wobbliness · Low blood pressure, seizures, or heart rhythm problems
Flamingo Flower / Anthurium
Anthurium spp.
Oral pain, drooling, or pawing at the mouth · Swollen lips, tongue, or throat · Vomiting or trouble swallowing
Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or belly pain · Weakness, low energy, or collapse · Slow heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, seizures, or sudden death
Gardenia
Gardenia jasminoides
Vomiting · Diarrhea · Hives (Urticaria) or Skin Rash
Gerbera Daisy
Gerbera jamesonii
Gerbera daisies are safe for cats and come in vibrant, neon-like colors. Unlike many other "daisies" (like Mums or Chamomile) which are toxic, Gerbera daisies are a cheerful, pet-safe choice.
Gladioli / Sword Lily
Gladiolus spp.
Vomiting and Diarrhea (Gastrointestinal Upset) · Drooling / Salivation · Lethargy
Grapes / Raisins / Currants
Vitis vinifera
Vomiting · Diarrhea · Lethargy, Weakness, or Depression
Heavenly Bamboo
Nandina spp.
Tachypnea (Rapid Breathing), Dyspnea (Difficulty Breathing), or Hyperventilation · Bright Red Gums/Mucous Membranes · Seizures, Tremors, Ataxia (Incoordination), or Coma
Holly
Ilex spp.
Vomiting and Diarrhea · Excessive Drooling (Ptyalism) or Lip Smacking · Abdominal Pain
Homalomena Selby / Homalomena rubescens
Homalomena Selby
Mouth Irritation (Pain/Burning) · Drooling (Hypersalivation) · Vomiting
Honeysuckle
Lonicera spp.
Vomiting and Diarrhea · Inflammation around the mouth, Drooling, or Itchiness · Difficulty Breathing (Dyspnea), Panting, or Rapid Heart Rate
Hummingbird Mint
Agastache spp.
Vomiting and Diarrhea · Drooling or Foaming at the Mouth · Lethargy or General Weakness
Hyacinth
Hyacinthus spp.
Profuse Drooling, Vomiting, and Diarrhea · Mouth and Throat Irritation (Burns) · Difficulty Breathing (Dyspnea) or Respiratory Depression
Hydrangea
Hydrangea spp.
Vomiting · Diarrhea · Lethargy / Depression / Exhaustion
Iris
Iris spp.
Vomiting, Nausea, and Diarrhea · Mouth Ulcers and Oral Irritation · Skin Irritation (Dermatitis)
Italian Arum
Arum spp.
Mucous Membrane Irritation and Ulcerations · Vomiting and Diarrhea · Abdominal Pain / Discomfort
Jade Plant
Crassula arborescens
Vomiting · Loss of Balance / Incoordination / Ataxia · Depression / Lethargy
Japanese Aucuba
Aucuba japonica
Gastrointestinal Discomfort (Vomiting, Diarrhea)
Japanese Pieris
Pieris japonica
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Hypersalivation (Drooling), and Anorexia (Refusal to eat) · Cardiac Arrhythmias, Bradycardia (slow heart rate), Tachycardia (fast heart rate), and Hypotension (low blood pressure) · Weakness, Tremors, Seizures (Convulsions), Ataxia (loss of coordination), Depression, and Coma
Jerusalem Cherry
Solanum pseudocapsicum
Vomiting, Diarrhea (often Hemorrhagic), Abdominal Pain, Anorexia · Convulsions (Seizures), Progressive Weakness, Paralysis, Dilated Pupils · Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate), Circulatory Collapse
Jimson Weed
Datura stramonium
Rapid Breathing (Tachypnea) · Dilated Pupils (Mydriasis) · Rapid Pulse (Tachycardia)
Kalanchoe / Mother of Millions / Widow's Thrill / Flaming Katy
Kalanchoe spp.
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Drooling (Hypersalivation), Abdominal Pain · Abnormal Heart Rhythm (Arrhythmias), Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate), or Tachycardia (Fast Heart Rate) · Weakness, Depression, Tremors, Ataxia (Loss of Coordination), Seizures (Rare)
Lantana
Lantana camara
Vomiting and Diarrhea · Labored Breathing (Dyspnea) · Weakness / Lethargy
Lavender
Lavandula spp.
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Nausea, Drooling (Hypersalivation), Inappetence (Loss of Appetite) · Lethargy, Weakness, Ataxia (Uncoordinated/Wobbly Gait), Muscle Tremors, Seizures, Disorientation · Difficulty Breathing (Dyspnea), Coughing, Sneezing, Wheezing
Lemon Mint
Monarda citriodora
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Nausea, Drooling (Hypersalivation) · Lethargy, Weakness, Uncoordinated Gait (Ataxia) · Coughing, Sneezing, Difficulty Breathing
Lilies
Lilium spp.
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Drooling (Salivation), Abdominal Pain, and Inappetence (Anorexia or Loss of Appetite) · Lethargy, Depression, Generalized Weakness, and Recumbency (inability to rise) · Acute Kidney Failure (characterized by Increased Thirst, Dehydration, Polyuria, and Anuria)
Lily of the Valley
Convallaria majalis
Vomiting, diarrhea (which may contain blood), abdominal pain/discomfort, and trembling · Bradycardia (a sudden, significant decrease in heart rate) and severe cardiac arrhythmias (such as Atrioventricular or AV block) · Seizures and tremors
Lisianthus
Eustoma grandiflorum
Lisianthus flowers resemble roses with their ruffled, layered petals but are completely non-toxic to cats. They come in gorgeous shades of purple, pink, white, and cream.
Lucky Bamboo
Dracaena sanderiana
Drooling · Vomiting (which can occasionally contain blood) · Diarrhea
Madagascar Periwinkle
Catharanthus reseus
Pharyngeal (throat) pain, abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, and dehydration · Peripheral nerve damage · Bone marrow suppression (depression)
Mexican Mint
Indian borage
Vomiting · Diarrhea · Drooling (excessive salivation) or foaming at the mouth
Milkweed
Asclepias spp.
Vomiting and diarrhea · Abnormal heart rates and rhythms (including bradycardia, tachycardia, and severe arrhythmias) · Weakness and unspecified neurological signs
Mistletoe
Phoradendron spp. or Viscum
Gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea (which can be profuse) · Slowed heart rate (bradycardia), low blood pressure (hypotension), and potential cardiovascular collapse · Difficulty breathing or rapid, labored breathing
Monstera / Split-Leaf Philodendron
Monstera deliciosa or Monstera adansonii
Intense burning and irritation of the mouth, accompanied by crying out in pain · Excessive drooling or hypersalivation · Swelling of the mouth and tongue, leading to difficulty swallowing
Morning Glory
Ipomoea spp.
Vomiting and Diarrhea · Agitation and Tremors
Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia
Vomiting, diarrhea, inappetence (loss of appetite), abdominal pain, and hypersalivation (drooling) · CNS depression, lethargy, and profound muscle weakness · Abnormally slow heart rate (bradycardia), irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), and low blood pressure (hypotension)
Mountain Mahogany
Cercocarpus spp.
Respiratory distress (panting, gasping for breath, or labored breathing) · Unusually red or pink gums (bright red mucous membranes) · Dilated pupils
Nightshade
Solanum spp.
Vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), and significant abdominal pain · Excessive drooling (hypersalivation), burning sensation, and coughing · Lethargy, depression, confusion, dilated pupils, ataxia (loss of coordination), muscle tremors, stupor, and seizures
Oleander
Nerium oleander
Drooling (hypersalivation), nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain · Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), abnormally slow heart rate (bradycardia) or fast heart rate (tachycardia), and low blood pressure (hypotension) · Lethargy, profound weakness, drowsiness, muscle tremors, seizures, and a lack of consciousness
Orange Mint
Mentha citrata
Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling (foaming at the mouth), difficulty swallowing, and loss of appetite · Lethargy, profound weakness, uncoordinated gait (ataxia), muscle tremors, and seizures · Difficulty breathing, coughing, and sneezing
Oyster Plant
Tradescantia spathacea
Drooling (hypersalivation) and vomiting · Skin irritation or rash
Peace Lily
Spathiphyllum spp. or Spathiphyllum wallisii
Intense burning, pain, irritation, erythema (redness), and pawing at the mouth · Hypersalivation (excessive drooling) and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) · Vomiting, stomach upset, and occasionally diarrhea
Pennyroyal
Mentha pulegium
Liver damage progressing to liver failure · Seizures, tremors, uncoordinated gait, weakness, and lethargy · Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, loss of appetite, and difficulty swallowing
Peony
Paeonia spp.
Vomiting · Diarrhea · Depression
Peppermint
Mentha × piperita
Vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, excessive drooling (hypersalivation), difficulty swallowing, and loss of appetite · Lethargy, weakness, uncoordinated gait (walking as if drunk/ataxia), muscle tremors, and seizures · Difficulty breathing, breathing with the mouth open, coughing, and sneezing
Peruvian Lily
Alstroemeria spp.
Stomach upset (vomiting and/or diarrhea) · Minor signs of oral toxicity or irritation
Phalaenopsis Orchid/ Moth Orchid
Phalaenopsis spp.
Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchids) are among the most popular orchids and are completely safe for cats. Their elegant, long-lasting blooms make them a stunning, worry-free addition to any home.
Philodendron
Philodendron spp., including 'Birkin'
Immediate oral pain, intense burning sensation, erythema · Excessive drooling (hypersalivation) · Vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), and loss of appetite (anorexia)
Photina Red Leaf
Nandina Photina spp.
Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, and almond-flavored breath · Tachypnea (rapid breathing), severe respiratory distress, panting, and gasping for breath · Unusually bright red or pink gums (brick red mucous membranes), hypotension (low blood pressure), and cardiac arrhythmias
Pine
Pinus spp.
Drooling and vomiting · Digestive blockages · Liver damage
Poinsettia
Euphorbia pulcherrima
Oral irritation, excessive drooling (hypersalivation), and discomfort of the mouth and esophagus · Vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea · Anorexia (loss of appetite)
Polka Dot Begonia
Begonia maculata
Excessive drooling (hypersalivation), redness around the mouth, oral sores, excessive licking of the lips, and an unpleasant burning sensation · Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) · Vomiting, disinterest in food and water (anorexia), and difficulty eating
Poppy
Papaver spp.
Dilated pupils · Vomiting · Lack of coordination
Pothos / Devil’s Ivy
Epipremnum aureum or Epipremnum spp.
Intense burning, irritation, and pain of the mouth, lips, and tongue · Excessive drooling or hypersalivation · Swelling of the mouth and tongue, accompanied by difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Prairie Lily
Zephyranthes drummondii
Vomiting · Diarrhea · Hypersalivation
Ragwort / Tansy
Senecio jacobaea or Tanacetum vulgare
Liver damage
Rhubarb
Rheum rhabarbarum
Drooling, inappetence (loss of appetite), vomiting, and diarrhea · Lethargy, extreme weakness, ataxia (loss of coordination), tremors, and seizures · Bloody urine, changes in thirst and urination (polyuria/polydipsia), oliguria (abnormally low urine production), anuria
Rosary Pea
Abrus precatorius
Gastrointestinal signs (which typically lead to significant dehydration and electrolyte imbalances)
Rose
Rosa spp.
All true roses (Rosa species) are non-toxic to cats. Their beautiful blooms and fragrance make them a wonderful, safe choice for your home.
Rosemary
Salvia rosmarinus
Rosemary is a woody, aromatic herb that is safe for cats. Its strong scent may actually deter cats from chewing on it. It's drought-tolerant and easy to grow indoors with proper sunlight.
Rubber Plant
Ficus elastica
Irritation of the mouth and drooling (hypersalivation) · Vomiting and diarrhea · Skin redness and contact dermatitis
Sage
Salvia officinalis
Sage is a beautiful, silvery-green herb that is safe for cats. Its velvety leaves and strong aroma make it an attractive kitchen plant. It thrives in sunny spots and well-drained soil.
Sago Palm / Cycads
Cycas revoluta, Cycas cirinalis, Zamia spp.
Vomiting, drooling, anorexia, severe abdominal pain, increased thirst, and diarrhea (which may be bloody or appear as black, "tarry" feces) · Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), profound hepatic necrosis, and severe liver failure · Bruising, blood clots, petechiae (pinpoint spots of bleeding), ecchymotic hemorrhages, and generalized abnormal bleeding
Satin Pothos
Scindapsus pictus
Intense oral irritation, burning sensation, pain, pawing at the mouth, and localized swelling (edema) of the tongue and pharynx · Excessive salivation (drooling) · Vomiting, retching, and lack of appetite (decreased appetite)
Schefflera / Umbrella Tree
Schefflera spp. or Schefflera actinphylla
Mucous membrane irritation, intense oral pain, and excessive salivation (drooling) · Vomiting and diarrhea · Anorexia
Shamrock
Oxalis spp.
Gastrointestinal distress (including drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and inappetence/anorexia) · Hypocalcemic tetany (manifesting as lethargy, extreme weakness, ataxia/incoordination, tremors, and seizures) · Acute renal failure (manifesting as changes in thirst and urination, PU/PD [polyuria/polydipsia], bloody urine
Snake Plant / Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
Sansevieria spp.
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation · Hemolysis (the rupture or destruction of red blood cells)
Snapdragon
Antirrhinum majus
Snapdragons are whimsical, colorful flowers that are safe for cats. They come in a rainbow of colors and their unique "snapping" flower shape adds playful personality to any arrangement.
Spearmint
Mentha spicata
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and general upset stomach · Excessive drooling (hypersalivation) and difficulty swallowing · Lethargy, weakness, uncoordinated gait (ataxia), tremors, and seizures
Spider Plant
Chlorophytum spp.
Mild nausea or digestive upset (which may include vomiting)
Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum umbellatum
Vomiting and diarrhea · Bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate), tachycardia (abnormally fast heart rate), and cardiac arrhythmias · Hyperkalemia (dangerously elevated potassium levels in the blood)
String of Pearls
Senecio rowleyanus
Vomiting and diarrhea · Drooling · Lethargy
Sunflower
Helianthus annuus
Sunflowers are completely non-toxic to cats. These bright, cheerful flowers can safely brighten up your home. Both the petals and seeds are safe if your cat happens to take a nibble.
Sweet Birch
Betula lenta
Sore skin, redness, or chemical burns · Excessive dribbling · Vomiting
Sweet Pea
Lathyrus odoratus
Vomiting and diarrhea · Dehydration · Lethargy
Swiss Cheese Vine
Monstera adansonii
Oral burning, tissue irritation, and crying out in pain · Excessive drooling (hypersalivation) and pawing at the mouth · Swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat (edema), leading to difficulty swallowing
Tea Tree
Melaleuca alternifolia
Depression, lethargy, or dullness · Hypothermia (abnormally low body temperature) · Liver injury progressing to potential liver failure
Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Thyme is a low-growing, aromatic herb that is non-toxic to cats. It's hardy, easy to grow, and adds wonderful flavor to your cooking — all while being completely safe if your cat decides to investigate.
Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum
Hypersalivation (Drooling) · Vomiting and diarrhea · Lethargy, weakness, and confusion
Tulip
Tulipa spp.
Irritation to the mouth, throat, and skin, leading to profuse drooling (ptyalism) · Vomiting, diarrhea, and significant stomach upset · Depression
Wandering Jew
Tradescantia zebrina
Mild vomiting, drooling, and/or diarrhea · Skin redness or itch
Water Lily
Nymphaeaceae spp.
Vomiting · Diarrhea
Wintergreen
Gaultheria procumbens
Excessive dribbling · Vomiting · Shaking, tremoring, and walking as if they are drunk (ataxia)
Wisteria
Wisteria spp.
Drooling and nausea [770, 849, Conversation History · Severe vomiting, which may contain blood · Diarrhea
Yellow Oleander
Thevetia peruviana
Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, and abdominal pain · Bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate) or tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and severe arrhythmias · Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels in the blood)
Yesterday-today-and-tomorrow
Brunfelsia pauciflora floribunda
Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) · Dry mouth · Dilated pupils
Yew
Taxus spp.
Cardiac abnormalities (including an initially rapid heartbeat that progresses to abnormally slow heart rate and arrhythmias) · Difficulty breathing (dyspnea) and rapid breathing · Sudden weakness, drowsiness, and collapse
Ylang Ylang
Cananga odorata
Excessive dribbling (drooling) and vomiting · Walking as if they are drunk (ataxia) · Shaking, tremoring, seizures, and collapse
Zinnia
Zinnia elegans
Zinnias are vibrant, easy-to-grow flowers that are safe for cats. They come in nearly every color of the rainbow and make wonderful cut flowers that last for weeks.
ZZ Plant
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Mouth irritation (intense pain and burning sensation in the mouth) · Excessive drooling (hypersalivation) · Reluctance to eat (anorexia)