Is Moore's Cycad toxic to cats?

Yes — moore's 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 Macrozamia species, M. moorei contains cycasin (methylazoxymethanol glucoside), a potent hepatotoxin and potential carcinogen. All plant parts — particularly seeds and the central pith — are toxic. In dogs and cats, ingestion causes acute vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, liver failure, clotting disorders, and death if untreated. The toxin has historically caused livestock losses in Australia ('zamia staggers'). ASPCA classifies the Cycas and Zamia genera (same family) as toxic; Macrozamia presents the same risk.

Like all Macrozamia species, M. moorei contains cycasin (methylazoxymethanol glucoside), a potent hepatotoxin and potential carcinogen. All plant parts — particularly seeds and the central pith — are toxic. In dogs and cats, ingestion causes acute vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, liver failure, clotting disorders, and death if untreated. The toxin has historically caused livestock losses in Australia ('zamia staggers'). ASPCA classifies the Cycas and Zamia genera (same family) as toxic; Macrozamia presents the same risk. 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 moore's 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: Moore's Cycad is toxic to dogs as well. See the full moore's 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.