Toxic plants for dogs and cats
Which house and garden plants are dangerous? An overview to keep your pet safe.
Many plants we have at home or in the garden are toxic to dogs and cats. Cats like to nibble on leaves; dogs may ingest plant parts while playing or out of curiosity. A single bite can already be dangerous. Always check whether your plants are safe before placing them near your pet.
🚨 Highly toxic to cats
These plants are particularly dangerous for cats—even small amounts can be fatal:
- • Lily (all species) – Highly toxic to cats. Can cause acute kidney failure. Pollen and vase water are also dangerous.
- • Autumn crocus – Contains colchicine. Can cause severe vomiting, diarrhoea and organ failure.
- • Azalea / Rhododendron – All parts are toxic. Can cause heart problems, vomiting and coma.
☠️ Highly toxic to dogs and cats
These plants are life-threatening to both species:
- • Oleander – Highly toxic. Affects the heart. All parts—leaves, flowers, branches—are toxic. Even when dried.
- • Foxglove – Contains digitalis. Heart rhythm disorders, vomiting, diarrhoea. Can be fatal.
- • Yew – All parts except the red flesh are toxic. Can cause sudden death.
- • Rhododendron – Contains grayanotoxin. Salivation, vomiting, weakness, coma.
- • Sago palm (Cycas) – Highly toxic. Seeds and leaves can cause liver failure. Even one seed can be fatal.
🪴 Toxic houseplants
Popular houseplants that can cause problems:
- • Dieffenbachia – Irritates mouth and throat. Swelling, salivation, difficulty swallowing. Can cause breathing problems.
- • Philodendron – Contains calcium oxalate crystals. Mouth irritation, vomiting. Especially dangerous for cats.
- • Pothos / Devil's ivy – Same family as philodendron. Mouth irritation and vomiting.
- • Monstera – Also calcium oxalate. Chewing leaves causes pain and swelling in the mouth.
- • Poinsettia – Less toxic than often thought, but can cause gastrointestinal upset and salivation.
- • Aloe vera – The yellow sap (latex) under the skin is toxic. Vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy.
🩺 Symptoms of poisoning
Watch for these signs if your pet has eaten plants:
- • Vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling
- • Difficulty swallowing, swelling of mouth or throat
- • Tremors, shaking, unsteady gait
- • Lethargy, drowsiness, loss of appetite
- • Breathing problems, heart palpitations
🚨 In case of poisoning
Call your vet or poison control centre immediately. Do not induce vomiting without advice—with some substances vomiting makes it worse. Take a piece of the plant for identification.
Netherlands: 030-274 88 88. Belgium: 070 245 245.
✅ Safe plants
These plants are generally safe for dogs and cats:
- • Ferns (e.g. bird's nest fern, maidenhair)
- • Calathea, Maranta
- • Spider plant
- • Bamboo, Areca palm
- • African violet, orchid
🩺 This information is general. Contact your vet for tailored advice. When in doubt: call immediately.