Yes, dracaena is mildly toxic to dogs
Dracaena species, including the corn plant and "lucky bamboo", contain saponins. Cats often show dilated pupils along with vomiting and drooling.
Dracaena and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Dracaena spp. |
| Also called | corn plant, dragon tree, lucky bamboo, ribbon plant |
| Toxic compound | Saponins |
| Toxic parts | Leaves and stems |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Houseplant |
Symptoms of dracaena poisoning in dogs
- Vomiting, sometimes with blood
- Drooling
- Loss of appetite
- Depression
- Dilated pupils (cats)
Why dracaena is toxic to dogs
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 dog ate dracaena
- Remove plant pieces from your dog's mouth and move dogs 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 dog vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm.
- Watch for vomiting, sometimes with blood, drooling, loss of appetite. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your dog 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 dog away from dracaena
- Place dracaena on high shelves or in hanging planters out of reach of paws and tails, or in a room your dog cannot enter.
- Give your dog something better to chew: chew toys and puzzle feeders reduce boredom chewing.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
Pet-safe alternatives to dracaena
If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs 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 dogs.
Dracaena and dogs: FAQ
Is dracaena poisonous to dogs?
Dracaena is mildly toxic to dogs. Saponins can cause vomiting, sometimes with blood and drooling, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of dracaena is toxic to dogs?
Leaves and stems.
Can dogs die from eating dracaena?
It is very unlikely. Dracaena usually causes mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.
How long after eating dracaena will my dog show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Is dracaena toxic to cats too?
Yes, dracaena is mildly toxic to cats.
Is lucky bamboo toxic to cats?
Yes, mildly. Lucky bamboo is a Dracaena (Dracaena sanderiana), not true bamboo, and can cause vomiting, drooling and dilated pupils.
Other plants toxic to dogs
- 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 Dogs
- 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 dog's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.