ZZ plant toxic to cats

Toxic to cats and dogsCatsDogs

ZZ plant Zamioculcas zamiifolia

Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals · ASPCA

What to do if your pet ate it

If you think your cat or dog ate any part of ZZ plant, 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.
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:

Intense oral burning and irritation
Drooling and pawing at the mouth
Swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat
Vomiting

Non-toxic plants for the same spot and light

One non-toxic plant that suits the same spot:

Parlor palmChamaedorea elegansLow light tolerantPet-safe

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

All ZZ plant guides

Related plants

Same genus or the same care pattern.

Peace lily: Pet toxicitySpathiphyllum wallisiiToxic to pets

MonsteraMonstera deliciosaToxic to pets

Golden pothosEpipremnum aureumSame light and wateringToxic to pets

Spider plantChlorophytum comosumPet-safe

Frequently asked questions

Is ZZ plant toxic to cats?

Yes, ZZ plant, which contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, 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 ZZ plant toxic to dogs?

Yes, ZZ plant 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 ZZ plant?

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 ZZ plant with pets?

ZZ plant 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.