Is Dracaena Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Yes, all plants in the Dracaena genus are toxic to both cats and dogs. This popular group of houseplants includes many common varieties, such as the Corn Plant, Cornstalk Plant, Dragon Tree, and Ribbon Plant. These plants contain compounds that can cause illness if a pet eats them.
Ingestion of dracaena can make a pet sick and uncomfortable. The entire plant is considered toxic, so it is important for pet owners to understand the potential risks and the signs of poisoning. Knowing how to keep pets away from these plants can prevent an emergency visit to the veterinarian.
Dracaena: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Dracaena |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Corn Plant, Cornstalk Plant, Dragon Tree, Ribbon Plant |
| Scientific name | Dracaena spp. |
| Family | Agavaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Saponins |
| Clinical signs listed | Vomiting (occasionally with blood), depression, anorexia, hypersalivation, dilated pupils (cats). |
What the ASPCA says about dracaena
The ASPCA lists Dracaena spp. as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle identified in these plants is a group of compounds known as saponins.
If a cat or dog chews on or ingests parts of a dracaena plant, the saponins may lead to a range of clinical signs. The ASPCA notes the following symptoms for pets:
- Vomiting, which can sometimes include blood
- Depression or lethargy
- Anorexia, which means a loss of appetite
- Hypersalivation, or excessive drooling
The ASPCA also specifies that cats may experience dilated pupils after eating this plant.
What this means in a home with pets
Having a dracaena plant in a home with cats or dogs requires careful management to prevent accidental ingestion. Since the entire plant contains saponins, a pet could become sick from chewing on a leaf, stem, or any other part. Kittens and puppies, who often explore their environment by tasting and chewing, may be at a higher risk of eating houseplants.
Cats may be interested in the long leaves of some dracaena varieties and chew on them. Dogs might chew on plants out of boredom or curiosity. The resulting symptoms, such as vomiting and loss of appetite, can cause significant discomfort and may lead to dehydration if they persist. Even if you believe your pet is not interested in plants, their behavior can change unexpectedly. Therefore, supervision and prevention are key to ensuring their safety.
Keeping pets and this plant apart
The most effective way to prevent dracaena poisoning is to ensure your pets cannot access the plant. Place dracaena plants in rooms that are completely off-limits to your cats and dogs. Using closed doors is a simple and reliable method.
If you cannot restrict access to a room, place the plants on very high shelves or ledges that your dog cannot reach and you are certain your cat cannot climb to. Hanging planters can also be a good option, as long as they are securely fastened and do not have any dangling leaves within your pet’s reach. Avoid placing plants on low tables, windowsills, or stands that a pet could easily access or knock over. Regularly check the floor around the plant for any fallen leaves and dispose of them immediately. Providing your pets with plenty of safe toys and enrichment can also help redirect their chewing behavior away from household items like plants.
When to call your vet
If your pet chewed or ate part of this plant, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line. Note which plant and which part, how much may be gone and when, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
If you suspect your cat or dog has eaten any part of a dracaena plant, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center can be reached at (888) 426-4435, though a consultation fee may apply. Note the time of ingestion and how much of the plant you think was consumed. If possible, keep the plant’s packaging or have a photo of it ready for identification purposes.
Emergency signs: go now
- Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
- Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
- Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
- Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
- Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear
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- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
- Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
- Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.
Sources
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.