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
dog safety reference
Is Cardboard Palm safe for dogs?
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.
Cardboard PlantZamia furfuraceaZamia spp.
- Light
- Bright indirect light to full sun
- Habit
- Slow-growing, clumping
- Care
- Low
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Dogs: this is an emergency. Cardboard palms (Zamia spp.) are close relatives of sago palms and share the same cycasin toxicity. ASPCA classifies the entire plant as toxic to dogs, with seeds carrying the highest dose — a single seed has been enough to cause acute liver failure.
What to watch for
Expect vomiting (sometimes bloody) and dark, tarry stools early on. As the liver is hit, look for jaundice, easy bruising, nosebleeds, or unexplained bleeding. Severe cases progress to abdominal pain, weakness, ataxia, tremors, and seizures.
Time window
GI signs usually start within 15 minutes to a few hours of ingestion. Neurologic signs can appear at 4–12 hours, and clinical liver failure typically declares itself at 2–3 days, with bloodwork changes detectable at 24–48 hours.
When to call the vet
Call immediately — don't wait for symptoms. Roughly half of treated cases are still fatal, and the survival lever that matters most is how quickly the dog gets to a clinic for decontamination.
First aid at home
Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or an emergency vet right away. If it's safe, remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and bring a piece or clear photo of the plant for identification. Do not induce vomiting at home — that decision is for the veterinarian.
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.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Vomiting, bloody stool, abdominal pain, bruising, and liver damage.
Escalation note
The entire plant is toxic, with seeds being the most dangerous part. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your dog has chewed or eaten any part of this plant.
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
Cardboard palm is toxic to both cats and dogs, containing cycasin which can cause severe liver failure.
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