Yes, jade plants are mildly toxic to cats
Jade plants are popular succulents that the ASPCA lists as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic compound is unknown; most cases cause vomiting and lethargy.
Jade Plants and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Crassula ovata |
| Also called | money plant, friendship tree, dollar plant |
| Toxic compound | Unknown |
| Toxic parts | All parts |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Houseplant |
Symptoms of jade plants poisoning in cats
- Vomiting
- Depression or lethargy
- Loss of coordination (uncommon)
- Slow heart rate (rare, mostly cats)
Why jade plants are toxic to cats
The toxic principle in jade plants has not been identified. Reported effects include vomiting, depression and, less often, incoordination and a slow heart rate.
What to do if your cat ate jade plants
- Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
- Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
- Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
- Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
- Watch for vomiting, depression or lethargy, loss of coordination. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
Treatment and outlook
Supportive care: anti-nausea medicine, fluids and monitoring. Call your vet if your pet seems weak or wobbly.
How to keep your cat away from jade plants
- Place jade plants on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
- Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
Pet-safe alternatives to jade plants
If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
- BambooNon-toxic
- CalatheasNon-toxic
- FernsNon-toxic
- Areca PalmsNon-toxic
- African VioletsNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for cats.
Jade Plants and cats: FAQ
Are jade plants poisonous to cats?
Jade Plants are mildly toxic to cats. Unknown can cause vomiting and depression or lethargy, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of jade plants is toxic to cats?
All parts.
Can cats die from eating jade plants?
It is very unlikely. Jade Plants usually cause mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
How long after eating jade plants will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Are jade plants toxic to dogs too?
Yes, jade plants are mildly toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- CarnationsMildly toxic
- DaisiesMildly toxic
- ChrysanthemumsMildly toxic
- Baby's BreathMildly toxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Cats
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonous Plants
Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.