Growli
Let's go

Pet safety

Is Epiphytic Zamia toxic to cats?

Zamia pseudoparasitica

Toxic to cats

Yes — epiphytic zamia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. 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.

What to do if your cat ate epiphytic zamia

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move epiphytic zamia out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of epiphytic zamia to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten epiphytic zamia, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is epiphytic zamia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is epiphytic zamia toxic to cats?

Yes — epiphytic zamia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. 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.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats epiphytic zamia?

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. 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 epiphytic zamia.

What should I do if my cat ate epiphytic zamia?

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.

Is epiphytic zamia toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Epiphytic Zamia is toxic to dogs as well. See the full epiphytic zamia pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to epiphytic zamia?

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.

Full epiphytic zamia pet-safety