Is String of pearls toxic to cats and dogs?Senecio rowleyanus
String of pearls is toxic to cats and dogs.
String of pearls contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids. In cats and dogs, contact or ingestion can cause:
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- lethargy
- central nervous system depression
Pets at home? The app flags toxic plants before you buy — and warns you if you try to add one.Get the app →
Pet-safety information for catalogue plants uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
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.
- Remove the plant from the pet's reach.
- Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
- You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (available 24/7): a consultation fee may apply.
Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to — it can make some poisonings worse.
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
If you love the look of String of pearls but want a plant that's safer around curious cats and dogs, these non-toxic options have similar light needs:
Donkey's tail, Ponytail palm, String of hearts. See all pet-safe alternatives →
Keeping pets safe around plants
Even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset if eaten in large quantities. The Botanicaly app tracks your plants and flags toxicity risks — useful when you're building a pet-friendly indoor garden.
AI plant care in your pocket
Identify your String of pearls and build a basic care schedule for free. Pro adds context-first diagnosis, pruning and repotting advice, and watering tuned to your home's light and weather.
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Get the app →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, which contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, is considered 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.
