Cats & 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.
Sources
Pet safety reference
Song of India
Dracaena reflexa
Dracaena reflexa is a popular ornamental houseplant known for its spiraling, lance-shaped leaves and woody stems. It contains saponins which can cause gastrointestinal and neurological distress if ingested by pets.
Dracaena reflexaDracaena reflexa var. angustifoliaPleomeleSong of India
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Upright, woody shrub
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
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 (sometimes with blood), depression, anorexia, hypersalivation, and dilated pupils.
Escalation note
Ingestion can lead to significant discomfort and systemic distress; please contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, and excessive drooling.
Escalation note
While rarely fatal, the saponins can cause persistent gastrointestinal upset; consult a veterinarian to manage symptoms and ensure proper hydration.
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
Dracaena species contain saponins which can cause vomiting, depression, anorexia, hypersalivation, and dilated pupils in cats and dogs.
Kew Plants of the World Online
botanical · 95% reliability
Accepted botanical record for Dracaena reflexa Lam.
Often compared with
Commonly confused with
Same Dracaena genus.
Corn Plant
Dracaena fragrans
The Corn Plant is a popular indoor shrub known for its long, arching, sword-like leaves that resemble corn stalks. While aesthetically pleasing, it contains saponins that can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same Dracaena genus.
Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Dracaena trifasciata is a popular, hardy houseplant known for its stiff, sword-like leaves with striking yellow margins. It is widely appreciated for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in various indoor conditions.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same Dracaena genus.
Gold Dust Dracaena
Dracaena surculosa
Dracaena surculosa is a popular ornamental houseplant known for its spotted, leathery foliage. It contains saponins which can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same genus
More from the Dracaena genus
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Monstera
Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, fenestrated leaves and vining growth habit. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Philodendron
Philodendron spp.
Philodendrons are popular tropical foliage plants known for their lush, heart-shaped or split leaves. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Peace Lily
Spathiphyllum
The Mauna Loa Peace Lily is a popular indoor plant known for its elegant white spathes and lush foliage. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation upon contact or ingestion.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Devil's Ivy is a popular trailing houseplant known for its heart-shaped leaves and ease of care. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same growing conditions
Plants for the same room
Bay Laurel
Laurus nobilis
Bay Laurel is a popular culinary herb often grown as an ornamental shrub or tree. While prized for its aromatic leaves, it contains essential oils that can cause digestive distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Boston Fern
Nephrolepis exaltata bostoniensis
The Boston Fern is a popular, lush houseplant known for its arching fronds and preference for high humidity. It is widely considered safe for pets, though ingestion of any plant material can occasionally cause minor digestive upset.
Uncertain for cats.
Generally safe for dogs.
Copperleaf
Acalypha godseffiana
Copperleaf is a tropical shrub known for its vibrant, variegated foliage. It contains compounds that can cause irritation if ingested by household pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, variegated leaves. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested or chewed.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.