Is lucky bamboo toxic to cats and dogs?
Quick answer
Toxic to cats and dogs. Lucky bamboo contains saponins.
Not sure it’s this plant?Check yours with a photo, freeLucky bamboo Dracaena sanderiana
Lucky bamboo is not bamboo but a dracaena, and dracaenas contain saponins that are toxic to cats and dogs. True bamboo (Phyllostachys aurea) is listed as non-toxic by ASPCA.
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of a lucky bamboo, 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.
Symptoms
In cats and dogs, eating it can cause:
- Vomiting (sometimes with blood)
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Drooling
- Dilated pupils (cats)
Non-toxic plants for similar light
Cast-iron plantAspidistra elatiorLow light tolerantPet-safe
Parlor palmChamaedorea elegansLow light tolerantPet-safeSee all pet-safe alternatives →
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice. ASPCA lists the whole Dracaena genus, so this applies to every Dracaena species, including this one. Sources: NC State Extension: Dracaena sanderiana, ASPCA: Bamboo.
All lucky bamboo guides
Related plants
ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: