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Is Giant Fishtail Palm toxic to cats?

Caryota gigas

Toxic to cats

Yes — giant fishtail palm 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. Toxic to cats and dogs. The Caryota genus contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides); chewing releases needle-like crystals causing intense oral pain, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The ripe fruits are especially irritant. Though not individually on the ASPCA list, the genus is a well-documented oxalate producer, so treat as toxic.

What to do if your cat ate giant fishtail palm

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move giant fishtail palm 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 giant fishtail palm to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is giant fishtail palm toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is giant fishtail palm toxic to cats?

Yes — giant fishtail palm is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Toxic to cats and dogs. The Caryota genus contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides); chewing releases needle-like crystals causing intense oral pain, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The ripe fruits are especially irritant. Though not individually on the ASPCA list, the genus is a well-documented oxalate producer, so treat as toxic.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats giant fishtail palm?

Toxic to cats and dogs. The Caryota genus contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides); chewing releases needle-like crystals causing intense oral pain, drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The ripe fruits are especially irritant. Though not individually on the ASPCA list, the genus is a well-documented oxalate producer, so treat as toxic. 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 giant fishtail palm.

What should I do if my cat ate giant fishtail palm?

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 giant fishtail palm toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Giant Fishtail Palm is toxic to dogs as well. See the full giant fishtail palm pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to giant fishtail palm?

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 giant fishtail palm pet-safety