Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Is String of pearls toxic to cats and dogs?

Toxic to cats and dogs. String of pearls contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

String of pearls — Senecio rowleyanus
This guide is aboutString of pearls Senecio rowleyanusToxic to petsString of pearls care guide →
Toxic to cats and dogsCatsDogs

String of pearls Senecio rowleyanus

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids · ASPCA

What to do if your pet ate it

If you think your cat or dog ate any part of String of pearls, 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:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Central nervous system depression

Non-toxic plants for the same spot and light

Non-toxic plants that suit the same spot:

Norfolk Island pineAraucaria heterophyllaBright / direct lightPet-safeRosemaryRosmarinus officinalisBright / direct lightPet-safeAreca palmDypsis lutescensBright / direct lightPet-safeWax plantHoya carnosaBright / direct lightPet-safe

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

All String of pearls guides

Related plants

Same genus or the same care pattern.

Ponytail palm: Pet toxicityBeaucarnea recurvataPet-safeSnake plantSansevieria trifasciataToxic to petsAloe veraAloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)Same light and wateringToxic to petsJade plantCrassula ovataSame light and wateringToxic to pets

Frequently asked questions

Is String of pearls toxic to cats?

Yes, String of pearls, which contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, 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 String of pearls toxic to dogs?

Yes, String of pearls 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 String of pearls?

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 String of pearls with pets?

String of pearls 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