Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
dog safety reference
Is Chinese Evergreen safe for dogs?
Aglaonema modestum
Chinese Evergreen is a popular indoor foliage plant known for its patterned leaves and tolerance of low light conditions. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested or chewed.
AglaonemaAglaonema modestumChinese Evergreen
- Light
- Low to medium indirect light
- Habit
- Clumping
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs that bite a Chinese evergreen leaf get an immediate burst of mouth pain — the leaves contain insoluble calcium-oxalate crystals that embed in the tongue, lips, and gums. ASPCA classifies it as toxic, but reactions are usually self-limiting; most dogs spit the leaf out, drool a lot, and feel better within 12–24 hours with supportive care.
What to watch for
Pawing at the mouth, foamy drooling, head-shaking, decreased appetite, and vomiting. Watch the muzzle and tongue for visible swelling; rare severe cases involve airway swelling and breathing changes.
Time window
Onset is fast, typically within minutes of chewing. ASPCA notes the painful effects usually fade within 12–24 hours of ingestion.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) if drooling does not stop within an hour, your dog will not eat or drink, the tongue or muzzle is visibly swollen, or there is any change in breathing.
First aid at home
Wipe any plant material out of the dog's mouth with a damp cloth. Pet Poison Helpline notes that rinsing the mouth with milk or water — and offering a small amount of milk to drink — can help, because calcium in the milk binds the oxalate crystals and reduces irritation. Then call ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Do not induce vomiting unless instructed.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and pawing at the mouth.
Escalation note
Ingestion typically results in immediate discomfort due to the needle-like crystals. Seek veterinary advice if symptoms are severe or if the animal refuses to eat or drink.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Aglaonema modestum is a shade-loving perennial that is known to be toxic if ingested.
Same dog verdict
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