Pet emergency
My dog ate Epiphytic Zamia — what to do
Step by step
- Take epiphytic zamia away and remove any plant material from your dog'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 a poison-control line — (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK. Both charge a consultation fee. 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 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK.
My dog ate epiphytic zamia — FAQ
Is epiphytic zamia poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Epiphytic Zamia (Zamia pseudoparasitica) as toxic to dogs. All parts of Zamia pseudoparasitica contain cycasin, a potent liver toxin consistent across the Zamia genus. The ASPCA lists Zamia as toxic to dogs and cats, causing gastroenteritis, liver failure, and potentially fatal outcomes. Seeds are most concentrated. Handle with gloves and keep away from all pets and children.
How serious is it if my dog ate epiphytic zamia?
Epiphytic Zamia is toxic to dogs and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, 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. All parts of Zamia pseudoparasitica contain cycasin, a potent liver toxin consistent across the Zamia genus. The ASPCA lists Zamia as toxic to dogs and cats, causing gastroenteritis, liver failure, and potentially fatal outcomes. Seeds are most concentrated. Handle with gloves and keep away from all pets and children. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my dog vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or a poison-control specialist specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep epiphytic zamia well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Type any plant to see what the ASPCA says about it and your dog.
Related
- Is epiphytic zamia toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Epiphytic Zamia and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide
- Best plant app for pet owners — which apps actually flag ASPCA toxicity before you buy the plant