Is Florida Arrowroot toxic to cats?

Yes — florida arrowroot 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 floridana contain cycasin and macrozamin — azoxy glycosides that cause acute liver failure in dogs and cats, and are neurotoxic to humans when unprocessed. Seeds are the most concentrated source. ASPCA lists the Zamia genus (sago-type cycads) as severely toxic to dogs and cats. The traditional food use (coontie starch) required extensive washing and processing to remove toxins.

All parts of Zamia floridana contain cycasin and macrozamin — azoxy glycosides that cause acute liver failure in dogs and cats, and are neurotoxic to humans when unprocessed. Seeds are the most concentrated source. ASPCA lists the Zamia genus (sago-type cycads) as severely toxic to dogs and cats. The traditional food use (coontie starch) required extensive washing and processing to remove toxins. 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 florida arrowroot.

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: Florida Arrowroot is toxic to dogs as well. See the full florida arrowroot 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.