Is Many-pinnate Cycad toxic to cats?

Yes — many-pinnate cycad is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Like all Cycas species, Cycas multipinnata contains cycasin (methylazoxymethanol glycoside), which causes severe gastrointestinal distress, hepatotoxicity, and neurological damage in dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists the Cycas genus as toxic to both species; all plant parts — especially seeds — are dangerous and ingestion requires immediate veterinary attention.

Like all Cycas species, Cycas multipinnata contains cycasin (methylazoxymethanol glycoside), which causes severe gastrointestinal distress, hepatotoxicity, and neurological damage in dogs and cats. The ASPCA lists the Cycas genus as toxic to both species; all plant parts — especially seeds — are dangerous and ingestion requires immediate veterinary attention. 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 many-pinnate cycad.

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: Many-pinnate Cycad is toxic to dogs as well. See the full many-pinnate cycad 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.