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Is Bird of paradise toxic to cats and dogs?

Toxic to cats and dogs. Strelitzia reginae contains gastrointestinal irritants.

Bird of paradise — Strelitzia reginae
This guide is aboutBird of paradise Strelitzia reginaeToxic to petsBird of paradise care guide →
Toxic to cats and dogsCatsDogs

Bird of paradise Strelitzia reginae

GI irritants (mainly fruit and seeds) · ASPCA

What to do if your pet ate it

If you think your cat or dog ate any part of Bird of paradise, 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, mainly the fruit and seeds can cause these mild signs:

  • Mild nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Drowsiness

Non-toxic plants for the same spot and light

Non-toxic plants that suit the same spot:

EcheveriaEcheveria spp.Bright / direct lightPet-safeDonkey’s tailSedum morganianumBright / direct lightPet-safePonytail palmBeaucarnea recurvataBright / direct lightPet-safeNorfolk Island pineAraucaria heterophyllaBright / direct lightPet-safe

The ASPCA Bird of Paradise Flower record identifies Strelitzia reginae, lists GI irritants with mild nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness mainly from fruit and seeds, and warns against confusing it with the more-toxic Caesalpinia gilliesii. This is reference information, not veterinary advice.

All Bird of paradise guides

Related plants

Same genus or the same care pattern.

Chinese money plant: Pet toxicityPilea peperomioidesPet safety unknownPeace lilySpathiphyllum wallisiiToxic to petsAnthuriumAnthurium andraeanumToxic to petsWax plantHoya carnosaSame light and wateringPet-safe

Frequently asked questions

Is Bird of paradise toxic to cats?

Yes, Strelitzia reginae is toxic to cats. ASPCA lists mild nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness, mainly after fruit or seeds are eaten. Contact your veterinarian if your cat has chewed the plant.

Is Bird of paradise toxic to dogs?

Yes, 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 Bird of paradise?

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 Bird of paradise with pets?

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.

ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: 2026-09-01