Houseplant
Is Snake plant toxic to cats and dogs?
Dracaena trifasciata · also called Mother-in-law’s tongue
Cats
Mildly toxicDogs
Mildly toxicSnake plants contain saponins that cause nausea and vomiting if chewed. Serious poisoning is rare.
By Maya Hart
If your pet chewed it
- Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and offer a drink.
- Most pets recover within a few hours; call your vet if drooling, vomiting or pawing at the mouth continues.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Diarrhoea
What is harmful
- Parts
- Leaves
- Substance
- Saponins
Pet-safe alternatives
Questions owners ask
Is Snake plant toxic to cats?
Yes — mildly toxic to cats. Harmful parts: leaves.
Is Snake plant toxic to dogs?
Yes — mildly toxic to dogs. Harmful parts: leaves.
What happens if a pet eats snake plant?
vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea.
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and offer a drink. Most pets recover within a few hours; call your vet if drooling, vomiting or pawing at the mouth continues.
What are pet-safe alternatives to snake plant?
Spider plant, Boston fern, Calathea (prayer plant), Areca palm, Moth orchid.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
