Are Sago Palms Toxic to Cats? Yes, Highly: Emergency Signs

Highly toxic

Yes, sago palms are highly toxic to cats

Sago palms are not true palms; they are cycads. They contain cycasin, which destroys liver cells. One or two seeds can be fatal to a dog, and the death rate in poisoned dogs is reported at 32-50% even with treatment.

If your cat ate or touched sago palms: go to an emergency vet now or call ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Do not wait for symptoms.

Sago Palms and cats: key facts

Toxic to cats?	Highly toxic
Toxic to dogs?	Highly toxic
Scientific name	Cycas revoluta
Also called	coontie palm, cardboard palm, cycad
Toxic compound	Cycasin and other cycad toxins
Toxic parts	All parts; the seeds (nuts) are the most toxic
Signs usually start	Vomiting within 15 minutes to several hours; liver failure in 2-3 days
Plant type	Houseplant

Symptoms of sago palms poisoning in cats

Vomiting, often with blood, within 15 minutes to a few hours
Diarrhea, black tarry stool
Jaundice (yellow gums or eyes)
Bruising and bleeding
Liver failure
Seizures and death

Why sago palms are toxic to cats

Cycasin is converted in the body into a compound that destroys liver cells. Vomiting starts early, then liver failure, bleeding problems and neurological signs can follow over the next few days. The seeds contain the most toxin.

What to do if your cat ate sago palms

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 an emergency vet or animal poison control immediately, even if your cat seems normal: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Signs can be delayed while damage is happening.
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, often with blood, within 15 minutes to a few hours, diarrhea, black tarry stool, jaundice. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.

Treatment and outlook

This is an emergency even if your pet seems fine. Vets induce vomiting, give activated charcoal, start IV fluids and liver-protective medicines, and monitor liver values and clotting for several days. Early, aggressive treatment improves survival.

How to keep your cat away from sago palms

Place sago palms 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 sago palms

If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for cats.

Sago Palms and cats: FAQ

Are sago palms poisonous to cats?

Sago Palms are highly toxic to cats and can be fatal. If your cat ate any part of these plants, treat it as an emergency.

What part of sago palms is toxic to cats?

All parts; the seeds (nuts) are the most toxic.

Can cats die from eating sago palms?

Yes. Sago Palms can be fatal to cats, which is why any exposure needs emergency veterinary care.

How long after eating sago palms will my cat show symptoms?

Vomiting within 15 minutes to several hours; liver failure in 2-3 days.

Are sago palms toxic to dogs too?

Yes, sago palms are highly toxic to dogs.

How much sago palm is toxic to dogs?

Even one or two seeds can be fatal. Any amount of any part of a sago palm is an emergency.

Other plants toxic to cats

Sources

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.

Are Sago Palms Toxic to Cats?