Pet emergency
My cat ate Dioon mejiae — what to do
Step by step
- Take dioon mejiae away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My cat ate dioon mejiae — FAQ
Is dioon mejiae poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Dioon mejiae (Dioon mejiae) as toxic to cats. Toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA classifies cycads (Cycas and Zamia spp.) as toxic; as a true cycad, Dioon mejiae contains cycasin and related glycosides. All parts, especially the seeds, can cause vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, liver failure and death. Keep well away from pets and seek a vet immediately if ingestion is suspected.
How serious is it if my cat ate dioon mejiae?
Dioon mejiae is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA classifies cycads (Cycas and Zamia spp.) as toxic; as a true cycad, Dioon mejiae contains cycasin and related glycosides. All parts, especially the seeds, can cause vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, liver failure and death. Keep well away from pets and seek a vet immediately if ingestion is suspected. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my cat vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep dioon mejiae well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is dioon mejiae toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Dioon mejiae and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide