Is Haworthia Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Haworthia plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), this popular succulent does not contain any substances known to be poisonous to pets if ingested.
While this is reassuring for pet owners, it is important to understand that even non-toxic plants can cause mild digestive upset if a pet eats them. The term non-toxic refers to the absence of a poison, not that the plant is intended as food.
Haworthia: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Haworthia |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Many cultivars |
| Scientific name | Haworthia species |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Toxic to | None listed |
| Non-toxic to | Non-Toxic to Dogs, Non-Toxic to Cats |
| Toxic principles | Non-toxic |
| Clinical signs listed | None listed |
What the ASPCA lists for Haworthia
The ASPCA plant database is a primary resource for pet owners checking the safety of household plants. For Haworthia species, a plant in the Liliaceae family, the database provides a clear classification. It is officially listed as Non-Toxic to Dogs and Non-Toxic to Cats.
The entry also specifies that the plant has no toxic principles. This confirms that the plant has been evaluated and found not to contain compounds that would cause a poisoning event in cats or dogs. This classification covers the many popular cultivars of Haworthia.
What this means for pets in the home
Having a Haworthia in a home with cats or dogs means you do not have to worry about a poisoning emergency if your pet chews on a leaf. Unlike certain other houseplants that can cause severe reactions from a small bite, Haworthia does not pose that kind of threat.
This makes it a popular choice for households with curious pets. If a cat or dog nibbles on a Haworthia, it is not expected to lead to the serious symptoms associated with plant toxicity, such as organ damage or severe systemic illness. This lack of toxicity provides peace of mind for plant-loving pet owners.
Considerations for any non-toxic plant
Even though Haworthia is safe from a toxicity standpoint, it is still wise to prevent pets from eating large amounts of any plant. The digestive systems of cats and dogs are not designed to process significant quantities of plant matter. Ingesting leaves and stems can lead to mild gastrointestinal issues.
- Digestive Upset: Eating any plant material, even non-toxic types, can cause symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. This is a physical reaction to the indigestible material, not a chemical poisoning.
- Choking Hazard: Small or brittle pieces of a plant could potentially become a choking hazard, especially for small pets or those who eat quickly without chewing properly.
- Good Habits: It is always a good practice to discourage pets from chewing on houseplants in general. This prevents them from developing a habit that could be dangerous if they encounter a truly toxic plant elsewhere. Keeping plants out of easy reach is a simple way to manage your pet’s environment.
When to call your vet
A non-toxic listing means the plant is not expected to poison pets, not that eating it is harmless. Call your vet if your pet shows any of the signs below after chewing on a plant.
If your pet eats any part of a Haworthia plant and shows signs of distress such as repeated vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, it is best to contact a veterinarian. Be prepared to tell them what your pet ate, how much, and when it happened. For any concerns about plant ingestion, you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for guidance.
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
Book an appointment soon
- 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.