Yes, snake plants are mildly toxic to cats
Snake plants contain saponins, which cause stomach upset. Poisoning is usually mild because the tough leaves are unappealing and pets rarely eat much.
Snake Plants and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Dracaena trifasciata (formerly Sansevieria) |
| Also called | mother-in-law's tongue, sansevieria |
| Toxic compound | Saponins |
| Toxic parts | Leaves |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Houseplant |
Symptoms of snake plants poisoning in cats
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
Why snake plants are toxic to cats
Saponins are soap-like compounds that irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines. They are poorly absorbed, so the effects are mostly limited to vomiting, drooling and diarrhea.
What to do if your cat ate snake 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 nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, drooling. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
Treatment and outlook
Signs are usually mild and self-limiting. A vet may give anti-nausea medicine and fluids if vomiting or diarrhea is persistent, or if a small or young pet becomes dehydrated.
How to keep your cat away from snake plants
- Place snake 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 snake 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.
Snake Plants and cats: FAQ
Are snake plants poisonous to cats?
Snake Plants are mildly toxic to cats. Saponins can cause nausea and vomiting and diarrhea, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of snake plants is toxic to cats?
Leaves.
Can cats die from eating snake plants?
It is very unlikely. Snake 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 snake plants will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Are snake plants toxic to dogs too?
Yes, snake 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.