Is Sago Palm 'Aurea' toxic to cats?

Yes — sago palm 'aurea' is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA-listed under Sago Palm/Cycads as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle cycasin causes vomiting, melena, jaundice, severe hemorrhagic gastroenteritis and acute liver failure; the seeds are the most poisonous part and up to about half of ingestion cases are fatal. Keep entirely out of reach of pets and children.

ASPCA-listed under Sago Palm/Cycads as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle cycasin causes vomiting, melena, jaundice, severe hemorrhagic gastroenteritis and acute liver failure; the seeds are the most poisonous part and up to about half of ingestion cases are fatal. Keep entirely out of reach of pets and children. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to sago palm 'aurea'.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Sago Palm 'Aurea' is toxic to dogs as well. See the full sago palm 'aurea' pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.