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 Dogs

Some 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.

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email me Christine