Is giant white bird of paradise toxic to cats and dogs?
Toxic to cats and dogs
Giant white bird of paradise · Strelitzia nicolai
Giant white bird of paradise is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed or ingested.
My pet ate some: what to do now
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of a giant white bird of paradise, 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
Symptoms may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Loss of appetite
Non-toxic plants for similar light
Areca palmDypsis lutescensBright light, some sunPet-safe
Wax plantHoya carnosaBright light, some sunPet-safe
Sweetheart plantHoya kerriiBright light, some sunPet-safe
Gerbera daisyGerbera jamesoniiBright light, some sunPet-safeSee all pet-safe alternatives →
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses NC State Extension Plant Toolbox where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
All giant white bird of paradise guides
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Common questions
Is giant white bird of paradise toxic to cats?
Yes, giant white bird of paradise is toxic to cats. If your cat chews or ingests any part of the plant, contact your vet or a pet poison control center right away. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling.
Is giant white bird of paradise toxic to dogs?
Yes, giant white bird of paradise 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 giant white bird of paradise?
Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately. You can also contact a pet poison control center. 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 giant white bird of paradise with pets?
Giant white bird of paradise 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.
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