Kalanchoe — (c) jackywu, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by jackywu
Photo by (c) jackywu, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by jackywuiNaturalistCC BY
dog safety reference

Is Kalanchoe safe for dogs?

Kalanchoe spp

Kalanchoe is a popular succulent genus known for its clusters of vibrant, long-lasting flowers. While visually appealing, all parts of the plant contain cardiac glycosides that can be harmful if ingested by pets.

BryophyllumDevil's BackboneFlorist KalanchoeKalanchoe sppMother of Millions
Light
Bright indirect light
Habit
Succulent
Care
Low

Safety status

Dogs

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

What this means for your dog

Dogs that chew kalanchoe usually end up vomiting; the bigger concern is the bufadienolides — cardiac glycosides that, in larger ingestions, can affect heart rate and rhythm. Most cases stay GI, but the cardiac risk is real and worth a phone call.

What to watch for

Vomiting and diarrhea are by far the most common signs — that's what nearly every dog shows. Watch additionally for lethargy, weakness, or collapse, and any sign of an irregular heartbeat (panting at rest, sudden weakness). Cardiac signs are uncommon but most likely with large ingestions.

Time window

Onset and duration are not well documented; ASPCA states ingestion most often results in GI irritation, with cardiac changes seen mainly with larger ingestions.

When to call the vet

Call your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) any time vomiting starts after exposure. Call immediately — don't wait — if your dog ate a large amount, seems weak or wobbly, or you notice an unusually fast or irregular heartbeat.

First aid at home

Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian as soon as possible. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian instructs you to.

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.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potential cardiac arrhythmias.

Escalation note

The toxins in this plant can affect the heart muscle. Seek veterinary attention promptly if ingestion is observed or suspected.

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Source evidence

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

toxicology · 99% reliability

Open source

Kalanchoe contains cardiac glycosides which can cause gastrointestinal irritation and heart rhythm abnormalities.

NC State Extension Plant Toolbox

botanical · 94% reliability

Open source

Kalanchoe is a genus of about 125 species of tropical, succulent flowering plants in the family Crassulaceae.

Cats & dogs pagecats pageMy dog ate Kalanchoe

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