Is Chinese evergreen toxic to cats and dogs?
Quick answer
Toxic to cats and dogs. Chinese evergreen contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
Not sure it’s this plant?Check yours with a photo, freeChinese evergreen Aglaonema commutatum
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of a Chinese evergreen, act quickly. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
- Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
- Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
- When you call, have the plant’s name or a photo ready. Tell the vet roughly how much your pet ate and when.
Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.
How urgent is it?
Go to a vet now
trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or swelling at the back of the throat.
Call your vet today
vomiting or diarrhea, a pet that will not eat, or a large amount eaten.
Usually settles at home
drooling, head shaking or pawing at the mouth right after a bite. The ASPCA says many of these exposures can be managed at home and long-term effects are not expected.
In the US: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply).
Non-toxic plants for similar light
Cast-iron plantAspidistra elatiorLow light tolerantPet-safe
Parlor palmChamaedorea elegansLow light tolerantPet-safeSee all pet-safe alternatives →
The ASPCA’s Chinese evergreen record names another species, Aglaonema modestum. Pet Poison Helpline lists the whole Aglaonema genus as toxic to pets because of its oxalate crystals, so this applies to every Aglaonema species, including this one. Pet Poison Helpline Pet Poison Helpline lists the whole Aglaonema genus, so this applies to every Aglaonema species, including this one.
All Chinese evergreen guides
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