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 Coontie Palm safe for cats?
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
What this means for your cat
Cats are at lower risk than dogs for coontie palm only because they're less likely to chew through bark or seeds — but if they do, this is among the most dangerous plants in any home. ASPCA classifies it as toxic to cats, and Pet Poison Helpline lists the cycad family among the deadliest plants for pets, with even small amounts causing severe vomiting, GI bleeding, and progressive liver failure.
What to watch for
Vomiting (sometimes bloody), drooling, lethargy, dark or bloody stools, increased thirst, jaundice (yellow gums or skin), and easy bruising. Liver failure can progress over hours to days.
Time window
Pet Poison Helpline reports cycad GI signs typically begin within 15 minutes to 4 hours of ingestion; liver damage can develop over the following 2–3 days, so treatment must start fast.
When to call the vet
Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately on any suspicion — do not wait for symptoms. Seeds are the most concentrated part and ASPCA notes 1–2 seeds can be fatal.
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, 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.
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.
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