Is Snake plant toxic to cats?

Yes — snake plant is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Dracaena trifasciata as toxic to cats and dogs because of saponins. Ingestion can cause nausea, drooling and vomiting. Rarely serious but worth keeping out of reach.

ASPCA lists Dracaena trifasciata as toxic to cats and dogs because of saponins. Ingestion can cause nausea, drooling and vomiting. Rarely serious but worth keeping out of reach. 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 snake plant.

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: Snake plant is toxic to dogs as well. See the full snake plant pet-safety guide for both species.

Good cat-safe swaps that keep a similar look include cast iron plant, haworthia, ponytail palm — all ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs. See the full pet-safe alternatives to snake plant.