
If you suspect your cat or dog, or any other pet, has been poisoned, call your vets IMMEDIATELY. If you can't reach them call Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680 (there is a fee for the poison helpline.)
Plants Poisonous to Cats
Why are cats extra sensitive to poisons?
Cats are very sensitive to poisoning because they lack a liver enzyme that breaks down poisons and toxins and that is present in many other animals including humans. This protein is called UGT1A6 and is missing in the Large Cats as well as domesticated cats, or rather is produced in very small insufficient quantities. Strangely enough it is also missing in Brown hyena and the Northern elephant seal!
Scientists have theorized that because cats primarily eat meat and rarely choose any vegetable matter, they could survive without an enzyme that breaks down vegetable poisons, and it gradually mutated out of the genetic code of cats.
There is a short article on Discover Magazine website, If you want to read the primary source scientific paper here's a link.
Not having enough of this toxin eliminating protein means that if a cat is exposed to a poisons, it can accumulate faster than the cat can break it down and the cat is poisoned.
Luckily most cats are choosy about what they eat so poisoning is not as common as it could have been if cats liked to taste everything they ran across. Some do of course and if you have a cat that like to nibble at things you need to eliminate the really dangerous poisons from your environment.
Symptoms of Poisoning
There are several symptoms that are often present in poisoning. Nausea is almost always a symptom, odd behaviour, unsteady walk, shaking, pawing at the mouth, diarrhea and seizures are also often present. Since cats often regurgitate hairballs and grass it's a good idea to keep an eye on them to see if they have been into any dangerous plants or if they are just working through a hairball.
Loss of appetite or excessive drinking or peeing are other possible symptoms of poisoning.
If you suspect poisoning, act quickly. Remove any remaining plant material, contact your vet immediately and get your animal to help as soon as you can. Bring a sample of the plant to the vet's for identification.
Quick action is best because this can reduce the amount of exposure you cat suffers. If a long period of time has passed it's likely the poison has been absorbed and treatment options become limited. Sometimes all your vet can do is try to stabilize the animal. Call the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-213-6680 if you can't see your vet.
Families of Plants that are Toxic to Cats
I've included a long list of poisonous plants lower down on the page but If you look at the family of plants you can identify groups which share toxic chemicals. This makes a more manageable list.
Family: Amaryllidaceae






Photo of paperwhite and amaryllis courtesy of Wikimedia.org, paperwhite: Ceasol, amarylis: Hons084
A large family that claims: the Amarylis, but also Chives, Daffodils, Paperwhites, Narcissus, Snowdrops, Onions, Leeks and Garlic and a number of other plants called "lily" that are not true lilies.
The family Amaryllidaceae is well know for a large number of alkaloids which are usually very biologically active and have been researched for any number of medical reasons including fighting cancer. Here is an abstract to an article about this
Many of the Amarylidaceae family contain a toxic alkaloid called Lycorine. It is toxic to humans and pets. For more information here is an article about Licorine, including action of the Toxin.
Although benefits of onions and garlics for humans are widely accepted, these plants are toxic to cats, dogs and several other animals. The organosulfoxides damages the red blood cells which causes decreased blood oxygen transportation capacity, and, impairs delivery of oxygen to the tissues. A symptom of poisoning is anemia. Garlic is much more poisonous than onions. All forms including dried and fresh, pill supplements or juice should should be avoided for cats and dogs.
For more details here is a very good article Onion and garlic toxicity to pets.
Note, the classification of Amaryllidaceaes and Liliaceae is in some turmoil. At this point there have been some reforms that attempt to clean up the lily family because it has been a bit of a catch all. You can find the onions and garlics, sometimes in one family sometimes in the other. The important point is that they are toxic to cats and dogs.
Family: Araceae






Photo of dieffenbachia courtesy of Wikimedia.org, darina (Louise Wolff)
A large family that claims: Caladium, Dieffenbachias, Philodendrons, Jack in the pulpit, Calla lilies, Taro, Lords and ladies, Mexican breadfruit, Pothos, Elephant Ears, Skunk Cabbage and a number of other plants sometimes referred to as "lily" such as the Peace lily.
The toxicity of the Araceae family is due to the presence of Oxalic Acid. Although not an Araceae, Rhubarb has oxalic acid in its leaves, and stems and should never be fed to a cat.
An interesting feature of many Araceae, in particular those that smell rotten or really bad such as the Eastern Skunk Cabbage, is that they can actually raise their temperature above ambient temperature in order to better disperse the scent and attract pollinating insects. These plants are referred to as Thermogenic. Here is an article in Wikipedia on Thermogenic plants.
Taro and Mexican breadfruit are widely eaten but need to be prepared and carefully washed of the oxalic crystals before they are safe.
Oxalic acid tends to hurt the mouth and throat so animals will not be as likely to eat large amounts.
One of the names of Dieffenbachia is Dumb Cane. This refers to the inability to speak of people who have ingested it and have been struck dumb.
Family: Liliaceae





A very large number of common plants including: Day Lilies, Oriental Lilies, Tulips, Asparagus Ferns, Sprengeri, Crocus, Hyacinth, Hosta and many more belong to the Lily family.
Tulip photo - Taken by John O'NeillEdited and uploaded on his behalf by Fir0002, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=767393
True lilies are very toxic and even a small amount, even pollen, can be dangerous. The poisonous elements are several Alkaloids found in lilies including bulbs. Here is a brief article about lily toxicity and treatment in cats.
The poison attacks the kidneys and a very small amount can be deadly.
Here is an article on Bulb Toxicity.
Onions/Garlics are sometimes classified in the Lilies and sometimes in the Amarylis as the classification is reorganized. The characteristics are not always clear cut. I've put them in the Amarylis.
Euphorbiaceae



Casava photo by Bob Walker in Democratic Republic of Congo.) [CC BY-SA 2.5 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5)],
Castor Bean Plants belong to this family. They are highly toxic to cats, dogs and humans. No part of the plant should be eaten by anyone.There are many members in this family, besides the Cator bean: Cassava plant (Manioc or sometimes also called Yucca), Pointsettia and Leafy spurge are other examples.
The culpit in the case of Castor bean plants is ricin, a very toxic substance and no part of the plant should ever be eaten. The family also contains a large variety of other phytotoxins beside ricin, mainly diterpene esters, a variety of alkaloids and cyanogenic glycosides.
Wikipedia has an article on Ricin which is the poison in Castor beans
Leafy sprurge is classified as a noxious weed and is mildly poisonous to animals. Luckily it does not taste very good and most animals tend to avoid it. Page from Ministry of Agriculture, food and rural affairs on leafy spurge.
Food grade cassava, is processed by grinding, washing and sometimes fermenting to eliminate the cyanide producing toxins. Since some small amount is sometimes present, cats should not be fed cassava.
Pointsettias belong to this family. It's reputation is worse than it's actual toxicity. It can be very irritating to cats and if enough eaten by a susceptible cat then it can be quite dangerous but mostly it is not so deadly as many others plants.
Ericaceae



Yew photo By Didier Descouens (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons. Azalea photo By Famartin (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
This is a very large family of plants that include Yews, Heathers, but also the rhododendrons and azaleas.
Grayanotoxin can be very toxic to cats and other animals. It also finds it's way into honey if there are a lot of rhododendrons in the area making the honey poisonous. Here is a link to Grayanotoxin from Wikipedia
Several plants in this group have been studied for medicinal and biological activity. Rhododendron has been found to be immunosuppressant. Link to precis of study. Grayanoids, occurring exclusively in Ericaceae plants, are well-known highly toxic components from the genera Rhododendron
Yew are highly toxic to humans and animals. The poison includes Taxine a complex of alkaloids. It also has ephedrine and a cyanogenic glycosides. The leaves, seeds and even pollen have been shown to be toxic, pollen triggering asthma.
Here is an article on Yew poisoning of humans. Another article on the toxicity of yew from the Poison Garden website.
Berries are not poisonous but the seed inside the berry is.
Compositae



Chrysanthemum, By WriterPat (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons Chamomille By H. Zell (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
This family has many plants that are toxic to cats and other animals. Chrysanthemums, Chamomile, Daisies and Dahlias are all in the family. The main plant chemical responsible for toxicity is a group called Sesquiterpene lactones (SQL for friends). If you like the chemistry, here is an article from Cornell University. It is particularly relevent to livestock but cats often get in trouble nibbling house mums or being given chamomille products.
Sago Palm
Although not so often eaten by cats, sago palms containe Cycasin which causes liver damage. Sago Palms are sometimes kept as ornamental house plants. It is one of the highly toxic plants which can poison cats and dogs.
The Cycasin is a neurotoxic glycoside and also a carcinogen.
If you even suspect that your cat, dog or kid has chewed or eaten leaves, bark or a seed, get immediate help. It is very poisonous.
Sago Palm Poisoning in DogsSome Quite Common toxic house plants
Because they are so common the following plants often cause poisoning in cats and dogs. Most poisoning are not deadly, which is not to say that they can't be very dangerous for some sensitive animal particularly if enough is eaten.
Marijuana
Marijuana intoxication in cats and dogs is not uncommon and rarely fatal. It can cause some serious symptoms and seizure like symptoms. If you take your cat to the vets knowing it is marijuana, tell them so they do not treat your animal for other similar looking conditions, thus doing further harm. Here is a good page on Marijuana Intoxication in Cats and Dogs
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a common houseplant that contains Saponins. Depending on quantity and sensitivity of the cat, it can cause serious symptoms. Loss of appetite is one of them and this can be deadly to cats.
Coleus plants
Some coleus plants can be quite toxic to cats. There are quite a lot of variations in toxicity levels. IF you cat eats it treat it as serious.
English Ivy
This very common house plants can be quite toxic to cats.
Cyclamen
Family: Primulaceae. The tubers are the dangerous parts. The Saponins can cause Heart problems, seizures and death. Many members of the primulaceae family have toxic properties and several have been studied for medicinal purposes. Cat's are most likely to be exposed to Cyclamens since it is a common house plant.
Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe are a common plant in horticulture and is used for it's bright flowers. It is often used as houseplants.
Kalanchoe contain cardiac glycosides and are toxic to animals including cats. Cardiac arrest is the danger of ingesting it. The Flowers are the most toxic part of the plant. It is a common poison of cattle in Australia where it grows wild.
Good article on the toxicology of Kalanchoe.pdf
Oleander
Oleander is another plants that are sometimes brought in as cut flowers or as house plants. They are also cultivated as decorative garden plants.
Oleander is toxic to humans and to many animals. Even the honey that is made from oleander can be toxic.
It contains cardiac glycosides which interfere with electrolyte balance in the heart muscle and can cause death. The toxin is similar to digoxin used as heart medication. Foxglove, kalanchoe and milkweed are all plants that also have a similar effects.
Geranium / Pelargonium
The primary toxic substances in the geranium, geraniol and linalool, may cause anything from skin irritation to vomiting. The more highly scented geraniums have higher concentrations and are more toxic. This is not usually a serious poisoning but if a lot has been ingested or if your cat is particularly sensitive then the symptoms can be more severe.
Sweet Potato Vine
Sweet Potato Vine, the leaves and stems in particular, is toxic and will cause your cat to act odd. It is hallucigenic and has an LSD like toxin. A large quantity can be dangerous.
List of Plants Toxic to Cats
Here is an incomplete list of plants that are toxic to cats. Since new plants are being imported and introduced, or simply have not been tested for cat toxicity, it is a work in progress and will remain incomplete. Plant Toxicity tends to run into families and the most notable culpits have been identified at the beginning of this article.
A great number of plants show some level of toxicity and some are very dangerous to both cats and humans. These are best kept away from pets and kids.
- Arum
- Other Names: Adam-and-Eve, Cuckoo Plant, Lord-and-Ladies, Starch Root, Bobbins, Wake Robin
Scientific Name: Arum maculatum -- Family: Araceae - Amaryllis
- Other Names: Belladonna lily, Saint Joseph lily, Cape Belladonna, Naked Lady etc,
Scientific Name: Amaryllis sp. -- Family: Amaryllidaceae - American Bittersweet
- Other Names: Bittersweet, Waxwork, Shrubby Bittersweet, False Bittersweet, Climbing Bittersweet
Scientific Name: Celastrus scandens -- Family: Celastraceae - American Mandrake
- Other Names: Mayapple, Indian Apple Root, Umbrella Leaf, Wild Lemon, Hog Apple, Duck's Foot, Raccoonberry
Scientific Name: Podophyllum peltatum -- Family: Berberidaceae - Andromeda Japonica
- Other Names: Pieris, Lily-of-the-Valley Bush
Scientific Name: Pieris japonica -- Family: Ericaceae - Angelica Tree
- Other Names: Hercules' Club, Devil's Walking Stick, Prickly Ash, Prickly Elder
Scientific Name: Aralia spinosa -- Family: Araliaceae - Apple (seeds)
- Other Names: Includes crabapples
Scientific Name: Malus sylvestrus -- Family: Rosaceae - Apricot (seed)
- Other Names: Group also includes Plum and Prune, Peach, Cherry
Scientific Name: Prunus armeniaca -- Family: Rosaceae - Arrow-Head Vine
- Other Names: Nephthytis, Green Gold Naphthysis, African Evergreen, Trileaf Wonder
Scientific Name: Syngonium podophyllum -- Family: Araceae - Arum Lily
- Other Names: Calla Lily, Pig Lily, White Arum, Trumpet Lily, Florist's Calla, Garden Calla
Scientific Name: Zantedeschia aethiopica -- Family: Araceae - Asian Lily
- Other Names: Asiatic Lily
Scientific Name: Lilium asiatica -- Family: Liliaceae - Asparagus Fern
- Other Names: Asparagus, Emerald Feather, Emerald Fern, Sprengeri Fern, Plumosa Fern, Lace Fern, Racemose Asparagus, Shatavari
Scientific Name: Asparagus densiflorus cv sprengeri -- Family: Liliaceae - Australian Ivy Palm
- Other Names: Schefflera, Umbrella Tree, Octopus Tree, Starleaf
Scientific Name: Brassaia actinophylla -- Family: Araliaceae - Australian Pine
- Other Names: Norfolk Pine, House Pine, Norfolk Island Pine
Scientific Name: Araucaria heterophylla -- Family: Araucariaceae - Autumn Crocus
- Other Names: Meadow Saffron
Scientific Name: Colchicum autumnale -- Family: Liliaceae - Azalea
- Other Names: Rosebay, Rhododendron
Scientific Name: Rhododendron spp -- Family: Ericaceae - Baby Doll Ti Plant
- Other Names: Ti-Plant, Good-Luck Plant, Hawaiian Ti Plant
Scientific Name: Cordyline terminalis -- Family: Agavaceae - Baby’s Breath
- Other Names: Maidens Breath
Scientific Name: Gypsophila elegans -- Family: Caryophyllaceae - Barbados Aloe
- Other Names: Medicine Plant, True Aloe
Scientific Name: Aloe barbadensis -- Family: Aloaceae - Barbados Lily
- Other Names: Amaryllis, Fire Lily, Lily of the Palace, Ridderstjerne
Scientific Name: Hippeastrum spp. -- Family: Amaryllidaceae - Barbados Pride
- Other Names: Peacock Flower, Dwarf Poinciana
Scientific Name: Caesalpinia pulcherrima -- Family: Fabaceae - Bird of Paradise
- Other Names: Barbados Pride, Poinciana, Brazilwood
Scientific Name: Poinciana gilliesii -- Family: Leguminosae - Bay Laurel
- Other Names: Sweet Bag, Bay Tree, Tree Laurel, Laurel Tree, Laurel
Scientific Name: Laurus nobilis -- Family: Lauraceae - Bead Tree
- Other Names: China Ball Tree, Paradise Tree, Persian Lilac, White Cedar, Japanese Bead Tree, Texas Umbrella Tree, Pride-of-India, Chinaberry Tree
Scientific Name: Melia azedarach -- Family: Meliaceae - Begonia
- Other Names: Over 1,000 spp. and 10,000 hybrids
Scientific Name: Begonia spp. -- Family: Begoniaceae - Bergamot Orange
- Other Names: Bergamot, Citrus bergamia
Scientific Name: Citrus Aurantium -- Family: Rutaceae - Bird of Paradise
- Other Names: Peacock Flower, Barbados Pride, Poinciana, Pride of Barbados
Scientific Name: Caesalpinia gilliesii -- Family: Leguminosae - Bird of Paradise Flower
- Other Names: Crane Flower, Bird's Tongue Flower
Scientific Name: Strelitzia reginae -- Family: Strelitziaceae - Bishop’s Weed
- Other Names: Greater Ammi, False Queen Anne's Lace
Scientific Name: Ammi majus -- Family: Apiaceae - Bitter Root
- Other Names: Dogbane Hemp, Indian Hemp
Scientific Name: Apocynum androsaemifolium -- Family: Apocynaceae - Black Calla
- Other Names: Solomon's Lily, Wild Calla, Wild Arum
Scientific Name: Arum palestinum -- Family: Araceae - Black Laurel
- Other Names: Dog Hobble, Dog Laurel, Fetter Bush, Sierra Laurel
Scientific Name: Leucothoe davisiae -- Family: Ericaceae - Black Nightshade
- Other Names: Nightshade, Deadly Nightshade
Scientific Name: Solanum nigrum -- Family: Solanaceae - Borage
- Other Names: Starflower
Scientific Name: Borage officinalis -- Family: Boraginceae - Boxwood
- Scientific Name: Buxus sp. -- Family: Buxaceae
- Branching Ivy
- Other Names: English Ivy, Glacier Ivy, Needlepoint Ivy, Sweetheart Ivy, California Ivy
Scientific Name: Hedera helix -- Family: Araliaceae - Brunfelsia
- Other Names: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Kiss-Me-Quick, Lady-of-the-Night, Fransiscan Rain Tree
Scientific Name: Brunfelsia spp. -- Family: Solanaceae - Buckeye
- Other Names: Horse Chestnut
Scientific Name: Aesculus spp -- Family: Hippocastanaceae - Buckwheat
- Scientific Name: Fagopyrum spp. -- Family: Polygonaceae
- Buddhist Pine
- Other Names: Yew Pine, Japanese Yew, Southern Yew, Podocarpus
Scientific Name: Podocarpus macrophylla -- Family: Podocarpaceae - Burning Bush
- Other Names: Wahoo, Spindle Tree
Scientific Name: Euonymus atropurpurea -- Family: Celastraceae - Buttercup
- Other Names: Butter Cress, Figwort
Scientific Name: Ranunculus sp. -- Family: Ranunculaceae - Caladium
- Other Names: Malanga, Elephant's Ears, Stoplight, Seagull, Mother-in-law Plant, Pink Cloud, Texas Wonder, Angel-Wings, Exposition, Candidum, Fancy-leaved Caladium
Scientific Name: Caladium hortulanum -- Family: Araceae - Calamondin Orange
- Scientific Name: Citrus mitis -- Family: Rutaceae
- Cape Jasmine
- Other Names: Gardenia
Scientific Name: Gardenia jasminoides -- Family: Rubiaceae - Caraway
- Other Names: Meridian Fennel, Persian Cumin
Scientific Name: Carum carvi -- Family: Umbelliferae - Cardboard Palm
- Other Names: Sago Palm, Cardboard Palm, cycads and zamias
Scientific Name: Zamia furfuracea -- Family: Cycadaceae - Cardinal Flower
- Other Names: Lobelia, Indian Pink
Scientific Name: Lobelia cardinalis -- Family: Campanulaceae - Carnation
- Other Names: Pinks, Wild Carnation, Sweet William
Scientific Name: Dianthus caryophyllus -- Family: Caryophyllaceae - Castor Bean Plant
- Other Names: Castor Oil Plant, Mole Bean Plant, African Wonder Tree, Castor Bean
Scientific Name: Ricinus communis -- Family: Euphorbiaceae - Ceriman
- Other Names: Cutleaf Philodendron, Hurricane Plant, Swiss Cheese Plant, Mexican Breadfruit
Scientific Name: Monstera deliciosa -- Family: Araceae - Chamomile
- Other Names: Manzanilla, Garden Chamomile, Roman Chamomile, True Chamomile, Corn Feverfew, Barnyard Daisy, Ground-apple, Turkey-weed
Scientific Name: Anthemis nobilis -- Family: Compositae - Chandelier Plant
- Other Names: Mother-In-Law-Plant, Kalanchoe, Devils Backbone, Mother of Millions
Scientific Name: Kalanchoe tubiflora -- Family: Crassulaceae - Charming Dieffenbachia
- Scientific Name: Dieffenbachia amoena -- Family: Araceae
- Chinese Evergreen
- Scientific Name: Aglaonema modestrum -- Family: Araceae
- Chinese Jade
- Other Names: Silver Jade Plant, Silver Dollar
Scientific Name: Crassula arborescens -- Family: Crassulaceae - Chives
- Scientific Name: Allium schoenoprasum -- Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Christmas Rose
- Other Names: Hellebore, Lenten Rose, Easter Rose
Scientific Name: Helleborus niger -- Family: Ranunculaceae - Chrysanthemum
- Other Names: Daisy, Mum; many varieties
Scientific Name: Chrysanthemum spp. -- Family: Compositae - Clematis
- Other Names: Virgin’s Bower, Leatherflower
Scientific Name: Clematis sp. -- Family: Ranunculaceae - Climbing Lily
- Other Names: Gloriosa Lily, Glory Lily, Superb Lily
Scientific Name: Gloriosa superba -- Family: Liliaceae - Climbing Nightshade
- Other Names: European Bittersweet, Deadly Nightshade, Violet Bloom, Blue Nightshade, Soda Apple, Poisonous Nightshade, Felonwort, Devil's Apple, Scarlet Berry, Woody Nightshade, Blue Blindweed
Scientific Name: Solanum dulcamara -- Family: Solanaceae - Clivia Lily
- Other Names: Kaffir Lily, Clivies, Caffre Lily, Cape Clivia, Klivia
Scientific Name: Clivia sp. -- Family: Amaryllidaceae - Coleus
- Other Names: Indian Borage, Bread and Butter Plant, Spanish Thyme, East Indian Thyme, Stinging Thyme, Country Boarage; many others
Scientific Name: Coleus ampoinicus -- Family: Labiatae - Common Privet
- Other Names: Privet, Amur, Wax-leaf
Scientific Name: Ligustrum vulgare -- Family: Oleaceae - Cordatum
- Other Names: Fiddle-Leaf, Horsehead Philodendron, Heartleaf Philodendron, Panda Plant, Split Leaf Philodendron, Fruit Salad Plant, Red Emerald, Red Princess, Saddle Leaf
Scientific Name: Philodendron oxycardium -- Family: Araceae - Corn Plant
- Other Names: Corn Plant, Cornstalk Plant, Dracaena, Dragon Tree, Ribbon Plant
Scientific Name: Dracaena fragrans -- Family: Agavaceae - Cow parsnip
- Other Names: Giant Hogweed
Scientific Name: Heracleum maximum -- Family: Apiaceae - Cowbane
- Other Names: Water Hemlock, Poison Parsnip
Scientific Name: Cicuta spp. -- Family: Apiaceae - Cyclamen
- Other Names: Sowbread
Scientific Name: Cyclamen spp -- Family: Primulaceae - Daffodil
- Other Names: Narcissus, Jonquil, Paper White
Scientific Name: Narcissus spp -- Family: Amaryllidaceae - Dahlia
- Other Names: Many varieties
Scientific Name: Dahlia spp. -- Family: Compositae - Day LiliesOther Names: many varieties
- Scientific Name: Hemerocallis spp. -- Family: Liliaceae
- Deadly Nightshade
- Other Names: Nightshade, Black Nightshade, European Bittersweet, Climbing Nightshade
Scientific Name: Solanum spp -- Family: Solanaceae - Desert Azalea
- Other Names: Desert Rose, Mock Azalea, Sabi Star, Impala Lily, Kudu Lily
Scientific Name: Adenium obesum -- Family: Apocynaceae - Devils Ivy
- Other Names: Pothos, Golden Pothos, Taro Vine, Ivy Arum
Scientific Name: Epipremnum aureum -- Family: Araceae - Elephant's Ear
- Other Names: Alocasia
Scientific Name:Alocasia spp. -- Family: Araceae - Feather Geranium
- Other Names: Jerusalem Oak, Ambrosia Mexicana
Scientific Name: Chenopodium botrys -- Family: Chenopodiaceae - Fern Palm
- Other Names: Sago Palm, Cycads
Scientific Name: Cycas spp. -- Family: Cycadaceae - Fetterbush
- Other Names: Staggerberry, Maleberry
Scientific Name: Lyonia sp. -- Family: Ericaceae - Fiddle-Leaf
- Other Names: Horsehead Philodendron, Cordatum, Heartleaf Philodendron, Panda Plant, Split Leaf Philodendron, Fruit Salad Plant, Red Emerald, Red Princess, Saddle Leaf
Scientific Name: Philodendron bipennifolium -- Family: Araceae - Fig
- Other Names: Weeping Fig, Indian Rubber Plant
Scientific Name: Ficus benjamina -- Family: Moraceae - Yellow Flag
- Other Names: Iris, Snake Lily, Water Flag, Yellow iris
Scientific Name: Iris spp. -- Family: Iridaceae - Flamingo Flower
- Other Names: Flamingo Lily, Tail Flower, Oilcloth Flower, Pigtail Plant, Painted Tongue, Painter's Pallet
Scientific Name: Anthurium scherzeranum -- Family: Araceae - Dock
- Other Names: Sorrel
Scientific Name: Rumex sp. -- Family: Polygonaceae - Dog Daisy
- Other Names: Dog Fennel
Scientific Name: Achillea millefolium -- Family: Compositae - Dog Hobble
- Other Names: Dog Laurel, Fetter Bush, Black Laurel
Scientific Name: Leucothoe sp. -- Family: Ericaceae - Dogbane Hemp
- Other Names: Bitterroot, Indian Hemp
Scientific Name: Apocynum -- Family: Apocynaceae - Dracaena
- Other Names: Corn Plant, Cornstalk Plant, Dragon Tree, Ribbon Plant
Scientific Name: Dracaena spp. -- Family: Agavaceae - Dumbcane
- Other Names: Charming Dieffenbachia, Giant Dumb Cane, Tropic Snow, Exotica, Spotted Dumb Cane, Exotica Perfection, Dieffenbachia
Scientific Name: Dieffenbachia -- Family: Araceae - Easter Lily
- Scientific Name: Lilium longiflorum -- Family: Liliaceae
- Eastern Star
- Scientific Name: Dianthus -- Family: Caryophyllaceae
- Elephant Ears
- Other Names: Caladium, Malanga, Taro
Scientific Name: Colocasia esculenta -- Family: Araceae - English Holly
- Other Names: European Holly, Oregon Holly, Inkberry, Winterberry, American Holly
Scientific Name: Ilex aquifolium -- Family: Aquifoliaceae - English Yew
- Other Names: Western Yew, Pacific Yew, Japanese Yew, Anglo-Japanese Yew
Scientific Name: Taxus baccata -- Family: Taxaceae - Eucalyptus
- Other Names: Many cultivars
Scientific Name: Eucalyptus spp. -- Family: Myrtaceae - Everlasting Pea
- Other Names: Sweet Pea, Perennial Pea
Scientific Name: Lathyrus latifolius -- Family: Fabaceae - Florida Beauty
- Other Names: Gold Dust Dracaena, Spotted Dracaena
Scientific Name: Dracaena surculosa -- Family: Cannaceae - Foxglove
- Scientific Name: Digitalis purpurea -- Family: Scrophalariaceae
- Garden Hyacinth
- Other Names: Hyacinth
Scientific Name: Hyacinthus orientalis -- Family: Liliaceae - Garlic
- Other Names: Stinking Rose, Rustic Treacle, Comphor of the Poor, Nectar of the Gods, Serpet Garlic, Rocambole
Scientific Name: Allium sativum -- Family: Liliaceae - Geranium
- Other Names: Many cultivars
Scientific Name: Pelargonium spp. -- Family: Geraniaceae - Geranium-Leaf Aralia
- Other Names: Wild Coffee, Coffee Tree
Scientific Name: Polyscias guilfoylei -- Family: Araliaceae - Giant Dracaena
- Other Names: Palm Lily, Grass Palm
Scientific Name: Cordyline australis -- Family: Agavaceae - Giant Hogweed
- Other Names: Cow Parsnip
Scientific Name: Heracleum maximum -- Family: Apiaceae - Gladiola
- Other Names: Many cultivars
Scientific Name: Gladiolus spp. -- Family: Iridaceae - Golden Birds Nest
- Other Names: Snake Plant, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, Good Luck Plant
Scientific Name: Sansevieria trifasciata -- Family: Agavaceae - Golden Ragwort
- Other Names: Ragwort
Scientific Name: Senecio sp. -- Family: Compositae - Good Luck Plant
- Other Names: Shamrock Plant, Sorrel
Scientific Name: Oxalis spp. -- Family: - Grapefruit
- Scientific Name: Citrus paradisii -- Family: Rutaceae
- Hashish
- Other Names: Marijuana, Indian Hemp
Scientific Name: Cannabis sativa -- Family: Cannabaceae - Hibiscus
- Other Names: Rose of Sharon, Rose of China
Scientific Name: Hibiscus syriacus -- Family: Malvaceae - Hills of Snow
- Other Names: Hydrangea, Hortensia, Seven Bark
Scientific Name: Hydrangea arborescens -- Family: Hydrangeaceae - Horsehead Philodendron
- Other Names: Fiddle-Leaf, Cordatum, Heartleaf Philodendron, Panda Plant, Split Leaf Philodendron, Fruit Salad Plant, Red Emerald, Red Princess, Saddle Leaf
Scientific Name: Philodendron bipennifolium -- Family: Araceae - Horseweed
- Other Names: Showy Daisy, Fleabane, Seaside Daisy
Scientific Name: Erigeron speciosus -- Family: Asteraceae - Hosta
- Other Names: Plantain Lily, Funkia
Scientific Name: Hosta plataginea -- Family: Liliaceae - Hyacinth
- Scientific Name: Hyacinthus orientalis -- Family: Liliaceae
- Jack-in-the-pulpit
- Other Names: Three-leaved indian turnip, Devil's dear, Wake robin, Starch wort, Wild turnip, Dragon root, Bog onion, Pepper turnip, Brown dragon, Memory root
Scientific Name: Arisaema triphyllum -- Family: Araceae - Jade Plant
- Other Names: Baby Jade, Dwarf rubber plant, Jade tree, Chinese rubber plant, Japanese rubber plant
Scientific Name: Crassula argentea -- Family: Crassulaceae - Japanese Show Lily
- Scientific Name: Lilium speciosum -- Family: Liliaceae
- Japanese Yew
- Other Names: English Yew, Western Yew, Pacific Yew, Anglo-Japanese Yew
Scientific Name: Taxus sp. -- Family: Taxaceae - Jerusalem Cherry
- Other Names: Natal cherry, Winter cherry
Scientific Name: Solanum pseudocapsicum -- Family: Solanaceae - Jerusalem Oak
- Other Names: Feather Geranium, Ambrosia Mexicana
Scientific Name: Ambrosia mexicana -- Family: Chenopodiaceae - Klamath Weed
- Other Names: St. John's Wort
Scientific Name: Hypericum perforatum -- Family: Clusiaceae - Lacy Tree Philodendron
- Scientific Name: Philodendron selloum -- Family: Araceae
- Lantana
- Other Names: Shrub Verbena, Yellow Sage, Red Sage
Scientific Name: Lantana camara -- Family: Verbenaceae - Larkspur
- Scientific Name: Delphinium spp. -- Family: Ranunculaceae
- Laurel
- Other Names: Mountain laurel, Spoonwood, Mountain Ivy, Calico Bush, Ivy Bush
Scientific Name: Kalmia latifolia -- Family: Ericaceae - Lavender
- Other Names: Common Lavender, English Lavender
Scientific Name: Lavendula angustifolia -- Family: Lamiaceae - Leek
- Other Names: Elephant Garlic
Scientific Name: Allium ampeloprasum -- Family: Liliaceae - Lemon
- Scientific Name: Citrus limonia -- Family: Rutaceae
- Lemon Grass
- Other Names: Oil Grass
Scientific Name: Cymbopogon citratus -- Family: Poaceae - Lily
- Other Names: Many names
Scientific Name: Lilium sp. -- Family: Liliaceae - Lily of the Valley
- Scientific Name: Convallaria majalis -- Family: Liliaceae
- Lime
- Scientific Name: Citrus aurantifolia -- Family: Rutaceae
- Locust
- Scientific Name: Robinia spp. -- Family: Mimosaceae
- Lovage
- Other Names: Maggi plant, Smellage
Scientific Name: Levisticum officinale -- Family: Apiaceae - Madagascar Dragon Tree
- Scientific Name: Dracaena marginata -- Family: Agavaceae
- Marble Queen
- Other Names: Golden Pothos
Scientific Name: Scindapsus aureus -- Family: Araceae - Marjoram
- Other Names: Knotted Marjoram, Pot Marjoram
Scientific Name: Origanum majorana -- Family: Lamiaceae - Mauna Loa Peace Lily
- Other Names: Peace Lily
Scientific Name: Spathiphyllum -- Family: Araceae - Mayweed
- Other Names: Poison Daisy, Stinking Chamomile
Scientific Name: Anthemis cotula -- Family: Asteraceae - Medicine Plant
- Other Names: Aloe, True Aloe, Barbados Aloe
Scientific Name: Aloe vera -- Family: Aloaceae - Milkweed
- Scientific Name: Asclepias spp. -- Family: Asclepiadaceae
- Mint
- Other Names: Garden Mint
Scientific Name: Mentha sp. -- Family: Lamiaceae - Morning Glory
- Scientific Name: Ipomoea spp -- Family: Convolvulaceae
- Moss Rose
- Other Names: Wild Portulaca, Rock Moss, Purslane, Pigwee, Pusley
Scientific Name: Portulaca oleracea -- Family: Portulacaceae - NasturtiumOther Names: Watercress
- Other Names: Watercress, Brunnenkress
Scientific Name: Nasturtium officinale -- Family: Brassicaceae - Nicotiana
- Other Names: Tree Tobacco, Tobacco, Mustard Tree
Scientific Name: Nicotiana glauca -- Family: Solanaceae - Oleander
- Other Names: Rose-Bay
Scientific Name: Nerium oleander -- Family: Apocynaceae - Onion
- Scientific Name: Allium cepa -- Family: Liliaceae
- Orange
- Scientific Name: Citrus sinensis -- Family: Rutaceae
- Orange Day Lily
- Scientific Name: Hemerocallis graminea -- Family: Liliaceae
- Oregano
- Other Names: Greek Oregano
Scientific Name: Origanum vulgare hirtum -- Family: Lamiaceae - Pacific Yew
- Other Names: English Yew, Western Yew, Japanese Yew, Anglo-Japanese Yew
Scientific Name: Taxus brevifolia -- Family: Taxaceae - Parsley
- Other Names: Italian Parsley, Hamburg Parsley, Turnip-rooted Parsley
Scientific Name: Petroselinum crispum -- Family: Apiaceae - Peach (seeds)
- Other Names: Seeds of: Plum, Apricot, Cherry
Scientific Name: Prunus spp. -- Family: Rosaceae - Pencil Cactus
- Other Names: Sticks of Fire
Scientific Name: Euphorbia tirucalli -- Family: Euphorbiaceae - Peony
- Scientific Name: Paeonis officinalis -- Family: Paeniaceae
- Mistletoe "American"
- Other Names: American Mistletoe
Scientific Name: Phoradendron flavescens -- Family: Viscaceae - Mistletoe
- Other Names: Eastern Mistletoe
Scientific Name: Phoradendron leucarpum -- Family: Santalaceae - Periwinkle
- Other Names: Running Myrtle. Vinca
Scientific Name: Vinca rosea -- Family: Apocynaceae - Philodendron Pertusum
- Scientific Name: Philodendron spp -- Family: Araceae
- Plantain Lily
- Other Names: Hosta
Scientific Name: Hosta plantaginea -- Family: Liliaceae - Poinsettia
- Scientific Name: Euphorbia pulcherrima -- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Poison Hemlock
- Other Names: Poison Parsley, Spotted Hemlock, Winter Fern, California Fern, Nebraska Fern, Deadly Hemlock
Scientific Name: Conium maculatum -- Family: Umbelliferae - Poison Parsnip
- Other Names: water hemlock, cowbane
Scientific Name: Cicuta maculata -- Family: Apiaceae - Pokeweed
- Other Names: Inkberry, poke root, virginia poke, poke, pigeonberry, redweed, red ink plant.
Scientific Name: Phytolacca americana -- Family: Phytolaccaceae - Prayer Bean
- Other Names: Rosary Pea, Buddhist rosary bead, Indian Bead, Indian Licorice, Love Bean, Lucky Bean, Seminole Bead, Weather Plant
Scientific Name: Abrus precatorius -- Family: Leguminosae - Primrose
- Scientific Name: Primula vulgaris -- Family: Primulaceae
- Ranger's Button
- Other Names: White Heads
Scientific Name: Sphenosciadium capitellatum -- Family: Apiaceae - Red Lily
- Scientific Name: Lilium umbellatum -- Family: Liliaceae
- Rhubarb
- Other Names: Pie Plant
Scientific Name: Rheum rhabarbarium -- Family: Polygonaceae - Rubrum Lily
- Scientific Name: Lilium speciosum cultivar -- Family: Liliaceae
- Satin Pothos
- Other Names: Silk Pothos
Scientific Name: Scindapsus pictus -- Family: Araceae - Skunk Cabbage
- Other Names: Skunk Weed, Polecat Weed, Meadow Cabbage, Swamp Cabbage
Scientific Name: Symplocarpus foetidus -- Family: Araceae - Sorrel
- Other Names: Common Sorrel, Spinach-Dock, Narrow-leaved Dock, Garden sorrel
Scientific Name: Rumex scutatus -- Family: Polygonaceae - Spring Parsley
- Scientific Name: Cymopterus watsonii -- Family: Apiaceae
- Stargazer Lily
- Scientific Name: Lilium orientalis -- Family: Liliaceae
- Striped Dracaena
- Other Names: warneckii, janet craig plant
Scientific Name: Ipomoea batatas -- Family:Convolvulaceae - Tahitian Bridal Veil
- Sweet Potato Vine
- Other Names: warneckii, janet craig plant
Scientific Name: Dracaena deremensis -- Family: Agavaceae - Tahitian Bridal Veil
- Other Names: Gibasis Geniculata
Scientific Name: tradescantia multiflora -- Family: Commelinaceae - Tiger Lily
- Scientific Name: Lilium tigrinum -- Family: Liliaceae
- Tomato Plant
- Scientific Name: Lycopersicon spp. -- Family: Solanaceae
- Tulip
- Scientific Name: Tulipa spp. -- Family: Liliaceae
- Variegated Philodendron
- Scientific Name: Scindapsus, Philodendron spp -- Family: Araceae
- Wahoo
- Other Names: Burning Bush, Spindle Tree
Scientific Name: Euonymus occidentalis -- Family: Celastraceae - Water Hyacinth
- Scientific Name: Eichhornia crassipes -- Family: Pontederiaceae
- Wisteria
- Scientific Name: wisteria spp. -- Family: Fabaceae
- Wood Lily
- Scientific Name: Lilium umbellatum -- Family: Liliaceae
- Yellow Oleander
- Scientific Name: Thevetia peruviana -- Family: Apocynaceae
- Canadian Yew
- Other Names: Yew, American Yew
Scientific Name: Taxus canadensis -- Family: Taxaceae - Yucca
- Scientific Name: Yucca sp. -- Family: Agavaceae
This web page came about from an interest I developed in toxic plants both to humans and to cats. This list of plants relies heavily on information provided by the ASPCA. I have added to it and modified it. I have also not included some plants such as catnip.
If in doubt about the toxicity of a plant, and you cannot find any information about its effect on cats, it is a safe assumption that a plant that is toxic to humans and dogs will also be toxic to cats. Contact your vet.
Here is a nice quick reference page by ProFlowers. com which lists 199 poisonous plants. Geared at cat and dog people.
email me Christine
Useful article from Merck.
Merck Manuals Pet health edition Plants Poisonous to animals.
Dogs too need safe Gardens. Here's an article from Yourdogadvisor.com about how to make a safe area for your dog. Many of their recommendations apply to cats equally well since cats are even more sensitive to poison than dogs.
Small Animal Toxicology, 3e
A Field Guide to Venomous Animals and Poisonous Plants: North America North of Mexico (Peterson Field Guides)
A manual of poisonous plants, chiefly of eastern North America, with brief notes on economic and medicinal plants, and numerous illustrations
3 Textbooks about toxic plants. By Anthony P. Knight - A Guide To Plant Poisoning Of Animals In North America: 1st (first) Edition
Toxic Plants of North America
Handbook of Toxic Plants of North America by George E. Burrows (2006-06-16)
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4 oz Martin's I.G. Regulator (IGR) Insect Growth Regulator Concentrate 1.3% Nylar ~ Effective Long-Term Control Of Fleas, Roaches, Flies, Mosquitoes, Gnats, Crickets, Litter Beetles & Ants ~~ Indoor & Outdoor Use Treats 6,000 SQ FT
Victor M230 Ultimate Flea Trap (Pack of 2, Multy)
Bergan Turbo Scratcher Cat Toy, Colors may vary
Cat Dancer Products Rainbow Cat Charmer
BestPet 9073 73-Inch Cat Tree Scratcher Play House Condo Furniture Toy Bed Post, Navy Blue
Trixie 5-in-1 Activity Center
Outdoor Run with Mesh Cover (XL)
Cat Perch by Art of Paws | Cat Shelf Cat Bed with Curved Cat Hammock Design | Elegant Wood Wall-Mounted Cat Furniture | A Gift your cat will love!
This article is for entertainment and information. I do not claim that it is a complete list of toxic plants. I do not claim to be an expert. This page is not intended as a replacement for professional medical help. If your pet has eaten a plant that might be poisonous or if he is acting unwell or strange, get help immediately.