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Is Narrow-leaf Zamia toxic to cats?

Zamia angustifolia

Toxic to cats

Yes — narrow-leaf 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 angustifolia are severely toxic to dogs, cats, and humans. The plant contains cycasin and BMAA, causing liver failure, neurological damage, and potentially death upon ingestion. ASPCA lists Zamia spp. as toxic to pets. Seeds are particularly hazardous. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if ingested.

What to do if your cat ate narrow-leaf zamia

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move narrow-leaf 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 narrow-leaf zamia to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is narrow-leaf zamia toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is narrow-leaf zamia toxic to cats?

Yes — narrow-leaf 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 angustifolia are severely toxic to dogs, cats, and humans. The plant contains cycasin and BMAA, causing liver failure, neurological damage, and potentially death upon ingestion. ASPCA lists Zamia spp. as toxic to pets. Seeds are particularly hazardous. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if ingested.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats narrow-leaf zamia?

All parts of Zamia angustifolia are severely toxic to dogs, cats, and humans. The plant contains cycasin and BMAA, causing liver failure, neurological damage, and potentially death upon ingestion. ASPCA lists Zamia spp. as toxic to pets. Seeds are particularly hazardous. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if ingested. 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 narrow-leaf zamia.

What should I do if my cat ate narrow-leaf 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 narrow-leaf zamia toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to narrow-leaf 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 narrow-leaf zamia pet-safety