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
Coontie Palm
Zamia pumila
Zamia pumila is a cycad native to the southeastern United States, often grown as an ornamental landscape or container plant. It contains toxic compounds that can cause severe health complications if ingested by pets.
Cardboard PalmCoontieFlorida ArrowrootZamia pumila
- Light
- Bright indirect light to partial shade
- Habit
- Slow-growing, clumping shrub
- Care
- Low
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, diarrhea, lethargy, jaundice, and potential liver failure.
Escalation note
This plant is highly toxic. Ingestion of any part, especially seeds, is a medical emergency. Contact your veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, bloody stools, jaundice, increased thirst, bruising, and liver damage.
Escalation note
The entire plant is considered poisonous to dogs. Immediate veterinary intervention is required as symptoms can progress rapidly to liver failure.
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
Coontie is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs, containing cycasin which causes severe liver damage.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Zamia pumila is a cycad that is highly toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
Often compared with
Commonly confused with
Same Zamia genus.
Cardboard Palm
Zamia spp.
The Cardboard Palm is a cycad known for its stiff, leathery foliage and slow growth habit. It is highly toxic to pets if ingested, as all parts of the plant contain potent cycasin toxins.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Share the alias "cardboard palm".
Sago Palm
Cycas revoluta
The Sago Palm is a popular ornamental cycad that is highly toxic to pets if ingested. All parts of the plant, especially the seeds, contain cycasin, which can cause severe health complications.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
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.
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.
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.