Is Sago Palm Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Yes, the sago palm is toxic to cats and dogs. According to the ASPCA, ingestion of any part of this plant can cause serious health problems for pets. The sago palm is a popular ornamental plant used both indoors and in landscaping, which increases the risk of accidental exposure for household animals.
This plant is also known by other names, including coontie palm, cardboard palm, cycads, and zamias. Its scientific names include Cycas revoluta and various zamia species. All plants in the Cycadaceae family should be considered dangerous to pets.
Sago Palm: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Sago Palm |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Coontie Palm, Cardboard Palm, cycads and zamias |
| Scientific name | Cycas revoluta, zamia species |
| Family | Cycadaceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Cycasin |
| Clinical signs listed | Vomiting, melena, icterus, increased thirst, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, bruising, coagulopathy, liver damage, liver failure, death. |
What the ASPCA lists for sago palm
The ASPCA classifies the sago palm as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. The toxic principle responsible for its effects is a compound called cycasin. Every part of the sago palm is poisonous.
If a pet eats any part of a sago palm, the ASPCA notes that it may lead to severe clinical signs. These symptoms can include:
- Vomiting
- Increased thirst
- Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, which is severe vomiting and diarrhea with blood
- Melena, which refers to dark, tarry stools
- Bruising
- Icterus, a yellowing of the skin, gums, or whites of the eyes
- Coagulopathy, which is a blood clotting disorder
- Liver damage or liver failure
- Death
The severity of these signs underscores the danger this plant poses to pets.
What this means in a home with pets
The toxicity of the sago palm means that even a small amount can be harmful. Cats and dogs that chew on or swallow any part of the plant, including its leaves, trunk, or seeds, are at risk. Because pets often explore their environment by mouthing or chewing objects, having a sago palm within their reach creates a significant safety hazard.
The plant’s stiff, feathery leaves may seem interesting to a curious cat or a bored dog. The seeds, sometimes called nuts, can be tempting for a pet to chew on. Any interaction between a pet and a sago palm should be treated as a potential emergency.
Keeping cats and dogs and this plant apart
The safest approach is to not have sago palms in your home or yard if you have pets. If the plant is already present, it must be moved to a location that is completely inaccessible to your animals. For indoor plants, this could mean a room that is always kept closed. For outdoor plants, secure fencing may be necessary to prevent access.
Supervision is critical, but it may not be enough to prevent a determined pet from reaching the plant. Regularly check your yard for fallen leaves or seeds, and dispose of them safely. When introducing any new plant to your home, it is a good practice to read its label and confirm it is non-toxic to pets. If you are unsure about a plant’s identity or safety, it is best to avoid bringing it home.
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 pet has chewed on or eaten any part of a sago palm, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. If possible, note what part of the plant was ingested, how much, and when it happened.
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.