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Is Croton toxic to cats and dogs?

Toxic to cats and dogs. Croton contains diterpene esters.

Croton — Codiaeum variegatum
This guide is aboutCroton Codiaeum variegatumToxic to petsCroton care guide →
Toxic to cats and dogsCatsDogs

Croton Codiaeum variegatum

Diterpene esters · ASPCA

What to do if your pet ate it

If you think your cat or dog ate any part of Croton, act quickly. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

  1. Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
  2. Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
  3. Have the plant’s name or a photo, roughly how much, and when it happened ready when you call.

Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.

Symptoms

In cats and dogs, contact or ingestion can cause:

  • Oral irritation and burning sensation
  • Excessive drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing

Non-toxic plants for the same spot and light

Non-toxic plants that suit the same spot:

Gerbera daisyGerbera jamesoniiBright / direct lightPet-safeEcheveriaEcheveria spp.Bright / direct lightPet-safeDonkey’s tailSedum morganianumBright / direct lightPet-safePonytail palmBeaucarnea recurvataBright / direct lightPet-safe

Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.

All Croton guides

Related plants

Same genus or the same care pattern.

Corn plant: Pet toxicityDracaena fragransToxic to petsMonsteraMonstera deliciosaToxic to petsGolden pothosEpipremnum aureumToxic to petsZZ plantZamioculcas zamiifoliaToxic to pets

Frequently asked questions

Is Croton toxic to cats?

Yes, Croton, which contains diterpene esters, is toxic to cats. If your cat chews or ingests any part of the plant, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center right away. Symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, and oral irritation.

Is Croton toxic to dogs?

Yes, Croton is toxic to dogs. Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats any part of it. Do not wait for symptoms.

What should I do if my cat ate Croton?

Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (24/7). Try to bring a piece of the plant or a photo so the vet can identify the species. Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.

Can I keep Croton with pets?

Croton is toxic to cats and dogs, so it is best kept out of reach: ideally in a room your pets cannot access, or replaced with a non-toxic alternative. See the pet-safe alternatives listed on this page.

ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: 2026-09-01