Cats
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.
Sources
cat safety reference
Is Cycads safe for cats?
Cycas and Zamia species
Cycads are ancient, palm-like gymnosperms that contain potent toxins throughout the entire plant, especially the seeds. Ingestion of any part of these plants is considered a medical emergency for pets.
Cardboard PalmCoontieCycas and Zamia speciesCycas revolutaSago Palm
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Slow-growing, woody stem
- Care
- Low to moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats — extremely toxic, treat as an emergency. ASPCA lists cycads (sago palm and relatives) as toxic to cats; cycasin in every part of the plant causes severe GI signs that can progress to liver failure within days. Pet Poison Helpline notes as few as one or two seeds can be fatal.
What to watch for
Within minutes to hours: drooling, vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Over the next 1–3 days: jaundice (yellow gums or eyes), increased thirst, lethargy, easy bruising, dark or tarry stools, and weakness or seizures as liver failure sets in.
Time window
GI signs begin within 15 minutes to several hours after ingestion. Neurologic and severe liver signs typically appear within 2–3 days. Hospitalization for several days is the norm.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately — even if your cat seems fine. About 50% of cycad poisonings are fatal even with treatment, and outcomes hinge on how quickly decontamination starts.
First aid at home
If you saw your cat chew or swallow any part of a cycad, do not wait for symptoms — bring the cat and a sample or photo of the plant to the emergency vet now. Do not induce vomiting unless your vet or poison control instructs you to. Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) on the way.
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.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, jaundice, increased thirst, and potential liver failure.
Escalation note
Extremely toxic; ingestion of even a small amount can be fatal. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
All parts of the Sago Palm are poisonous, but the seeds or 'nuts' contain the largest amount of the toxin cycasin.
Same cat verdict
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